How spatial segregation changes over time: Sorting out the sorting processes

Bailey, N. (2012) How spatial segregation changes over time: Sorting out the sorting processes. Environment and Planning A, 44(3), pp. 705-722. (doi: 10.1068/a44330)

Abstract

Although there is strong evidence that segregation on socio-economic lines has risen in the many countries over the last few decades, comparatively little is known about the processes by which this happens. While it is often assumed that selective migration is the dominant process, this is rarely demonstrated. This paper proposes a more comprehensive framework to analyse processes driving changes in segregation a ‘neighbourhood accounts’ framework. The framework is tested using data from the Scottish Longitudinal Study for 1991-2001, focussing on the working-age population. Contrary to what many have assumed, selective migration is shown to have only a very weak impact on changes in spatial segregation and is certainly not the dominant factor, at least in this particular context. The effects of ageing or cohort replacement and of uneven rates of status change or social mobility appear much more important. This raises important issues for policies to tackle segregation.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: The definitive, peer-reviewed and edited version of this article is published in this journal via doi: 10.1068/a44330
• Keywords: Spatial segregation, Neighbourhood change, Neighbourhood dynamics, Selective migration, Residential mobility, Scottish Longitudinal Study
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Bailey, Professor Nick
• Authors: Bailey, N.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Urban Studies
• Journal Name: Environment and Planning A
• Publisher: Pion
• ISSN: 0308-518X
• ISSN (Online): 1472-3409
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2012 Pion
• First Published: First published in Environment and Planning A 2012 44(3):705-722
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher