What is the rat race in the Outsiders?

In "The Outsiders," the rat race symbolizes the struggle for social status and acceptance within the divided world of the Greasers and the Socs. It highlights the relentless pursuit of material success and societal approval that both groups face, ultimately leading to conflict and a sense of disillusionment. The characters grApple with their identities and the pressures of their environments, illustrating the broader theme of class struggle and the desire for belonging.