Which of the following is NOT considered a component of social status?

Social status is a multifaceted concept that typically encompasses various elements that contribute to an individual's standing within a community or society. These components often include income, education, and occupation, as each of these factors plays a significant role in determining one's social positioning.

Income is a crucial component because it directly impacts an individual's purchasing power and access to resources, which are often linked to social perception and status. Education contributes to social status by influencing job opportunities and the level of prestige associated with one’s professional qualifications. Occupation is similarly significant, as certain jobs carry more perceived prestige and respect, thereby enhancing one's social status.

While social connections can influence an individual's social status, the term itself primarily refers to the established markers of status — such as income, education, and occupation — rather than the relationships and networks that one may possess. Therefore, social connections are not considered a core component of social status in the same way that the other factors are.