Intergenerational mobility refers to changes in the social position (typically in terms of occupation, income, or social class) of children relative to their parents. Upward intergenerational mobility occurs when children attain a higher social status than their parents, while downward intergenerational mobility occurs when children experience a decline in social status compared to their parents. The degree of intergenerational mobility in a society is often seen as an indicator of its openness and equality of opportunity. High levels of intergenerational mobility suggest that individuals' social outcomes are less dependent on their family background, while low levels indicate that social status tends to be reproduced across generations. Sociologists study intergenerational mobility to understand the factors that facilitate or hinder social movement between generations and the extent to which individuals can improve their social standing through their own efforts.