What do Silva and Edwards argue about upper and middle-class families?

Silva and Edwards argue that upper and middle-class families play a fundamental role in equipping their children with the necessary knowledge and skills for a smooth transition into the workforce. This perspective is rooted in the understanding that families from these socioeconomic backgrounds often have access to resources, networks, and educational opportunities that enhance their children's future employability.

These families typically emphasize academic achievement and the development of skills that are valued in the job market, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and social capital. Consequently, they may provide extracurricular activities, tutoring, and exposure to a range of experiences that broaden their children’s horizons, preparing them effectively for professional life. This focus on workforce readiness distinguishes upper and middle-class families from lower socioeconomic families, who might lack similar resources or opportunities to support their children's development in this way.

This argument aligns with a broader sociological perspective on how class influences educational and occupational outcomes, asserting that the advantages of upper and middle-class families extend far beyond financial stability.