Answer to Question #219130 in Sociology for Alicia Geel

Question

Discuss the differences between ascribed and achieved characteristics.

Answer 1

An ascribed status is the socioeconomic status allotted to an individual at birth or presumed unwillingly in the later years of life. An achieved status is a status an individual receives premised on intrinsic value or one's decisions. The primary difference between achieved and ascribed status is that achieved status is obtained by diligent work and abilities, whereas ascribed status is innate and acquired from birth.