Answer to Question #207732 in Sociology for Trina

Question

Discuss the differences between ascribed and achieved characteristics

Answer 1

Ascribed status is something that the individual inherits from birth, achieved status is something that the individual gains through hard work and talents. An example can be as; a woman is assigned a mother once she gives birth to her child. An achieved status is a position a person earns based on merit or one's choices. Secondly, Ascribed status cannot be controlled, whereas achieved status can be controlled and changed.