Toward a Nuanced Understanding of Digital Skills and Perceived Social Mobility: An Exploratory Study Among Chinese Youth

It is generally believed that the acquisition of digital skills is associated positively with socioeconomic empowerment. Policies and programs have been implemented to equip young people with skills in various digital technologies. However, the association between different types of digital skills and young people’s socioeconomic outlook is unclear. Drawing on data from a nationally representative survey conducted in China, this article reveals that overall digital skill level (DSL) and basic digital skills are not significantly associated with young adults’ perceived future mobility (PFM). Rather, the mastery of advanced digital skills is what matters. Individuals with only basic digital skills tend to exhibit more pessimistic expectations about their future mobility than those who possess both basic and advanced skills. In particular, the association between DSL and PFM varies across different levels of socioeconomic status (SES), suggesting that DSL correlates more strongly with perceived mobility for youth with lower SES than it does for their wealthier peers. This study suggests the existence of a digital skills underclass among young people, a relatively small yet significant group at risk of being left behind. The findings offer new perspectives for policymakers seeking to promote inclusive and sustainable youth development in the digital age.