The prestige of occupations in communication

• Main Author: Syed Abdullah Idid, Syed Arabi
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English; English; English
• Published: 2022
• Subjects: P87 Communication. Mass media
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/102866/1/Acceptance%20of%20abstract%20for%20CORENA%202022.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/102866/3/PROGRAM%20BOOK%20CORENA%202022%20-%20IREP.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/102866/19/102866_The%20prestige%20of%20occupations%20in%20communication.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/102866/

A study on the prestige of occupations was conducted to understand their standing in the country, especially to those related to the communication field. The sociology of professions emphasises prestige by focusing on occupations’ contributions to society. Occupations are valued differently in countries because of the role they play. Generally, occupations classified as professions command a higher level of prestige and respect than the newer occupations, as the idea of professionalism emphasises performance, dedication, and service to society. Occupations that require strict entry requirements and adherence to certain codes of practice are well respected by society. Many countries conduct studies periodically on the prestige and respect society has for the various occupations. Gallup's annual rating of the honesty and ethics of various professions finds five of the 22 occupations in 2021 at new lows in public esteem. What is the prestige of occupations in Malaysia? A study was made in April 2022 by interviewing 1,579 Malaysians nationwide, asking them to state the prestige of 14 occupations on a five-point scale. Findings showed that the occupation commanding the highest respect among Malaysians was the Medical Doctor, followed by Teacher, Engineer, and Lecturer. In terms of prestige, the Journalist and Public Relations Officer came in at the bottom 9 and 10, followed by Police, Public Servant, Minister, and Influencer.