Final answer:
Social stratification in the United States is influenced by occupation, social class, wealth, income, education, and power. These factors impact individuals' standards of living and are often reinforced by societal views and cultural attitudes.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the United States, social stratifications and standards of living are in part based on occupation, which influences social standing through various levels of prestige and income. Occupations such as those in medicine, law, or engineering confer higher status while others like waitress, janitor, and bus driver are perceived with lower prestige.
It is also important to note that while income and education play significant roles, other aspects such as socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and to a lesser extent religious beliefs, can impact an individual's social stratification. Societal views and cultural beliefs often reinforce social and economic inequalities present within the occupational structures of a nation.