Occupational status and a gradient of perceived

This study examined the relationship between occupational status, as mea-sured by the ANU3_2 scale, and selected psychological dispositions. The results, drawn from a sample of 490 subjects across the Sydney metropolitan area, found systematic difference for four dispositions. A negative relationship was found between occupational status and preference for stability/regularity, stress/challenge avoidance, and lack of future focus/confidence. A positive relationship was found between status and emphasis placed on striving towards stand-out achievement. The possible sources of development and the reinforcers of these dispositions are discussed. The conclusion is that these dispositions are associated with distinctive behavioural tendencies that act to constrain those further down the scale