Stratified Diffusion - GCSE Sociology Definition

Stratified diffusion is a concept in sociology that describes how new ideas, trends, or innovations spread through different layers or groups in society. Imagine that society is like a layered cake, with each layer representing a different social class or group. When something new starts in one layer, it gradually spreads to other layers, but not always at the same speed or in the same way. For example, a fashion trend might start with a small group of celebrities or influencers and then spread to the wider public. This process shows how different social groups can adopt changes differently depending on their access to resources and information. Understanding stratified diffusion helps us see how social structures can influence the way changes happen in society.