In the United States, we are taught that we live in a meritocracy, in which success is supposedly earned through hard work and ability. Add in a little luck, the American myth promises, and anyone can climb the ladder of success. It is an appealing promise—especially for those in white, affluent communities where the climb starts a few rungs up. Of course, as in any hierarchy, there is room for only a few at the top—and that’s when a parent’s status anxiety can get triggered.
