The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical framework to describe and account for dynamic properties of status projection phenomena. The effort is limited in the main to consideration of occupational and educational status projections, and emphasis is given to the particular characteristics and attributes of the rural social milieu existing in the context of an urban-industrial society. An attempt is made at synthesis of a number of broad, and sometimes conflicting, theoretical perspectives to provide a relatively coherent framework. This theoretical framework provides a guide for research aimed at illuminating the dynamic aspects of projection of social status through time. In addition, consideration is given to factors influencing differentials in the maintenance and/or change of these phenomena with progression through the age-status sequence, ranging from early adolescence to old age. Hypotheses and suggestions for research priorities are offered. (Author)