Objective:

To analyze the effect that macroeconomic factors and individual characteristics have on the probability of ascending the social scale, descending it, or maintaining one’s position in the socioeconomic strata.

Methodology:

Generalized Ordered Probit Model using data from the Social Mobility Survey 2011.

Results:

The economic growth and the individual´s educational and occupational achievements are the main variables that influence the probability of ascending in the socioeconomic strata and reduce the probability of descending. The economic growth inhibits descending mobility, strengthens the acquired position, and promotes upward mobility. The influence of variables representing the educational policy and trade openness goes in the opposite direction.

Limitations:

Lack of analysis by cohorts.

Originality:

The paper incorporates macroeconomic variables to explain social mobility when literature focuses on the characteristics and decisions of the home of origin and the interviewed.

Conclusions:

The results call for a critical reflection on the design of the educational and trade policy, which must impulse the improvement of opportunities for all.

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