Differentiate between ascribed and achieved status. Give suitable examples.

Differentiation between Ascribed and Achieved Status :

1. Status may be ascribed or achieved. Ascribed status is assigned to an individual either on the basis of his birth and biological characteristics such as sex, age and race or the status of his/her parents.

2. Ascribed status is assigned to an individual by the social system which remain unchangeable.

3. Example : For instance, an individual born in a royal family becomes prince or princess.

4. Similarly in our country Caste plays a vital role in determining the status of a person which is an example of ascribed status.

5. Achieved Status is a position which a person obtains through personal (his or hers, efforts.

6. Example : For instance, one can become a doctor, engineer or lawyer by one's own efforts. Persons occupying the status may be replaced but the position will continue to exist in the social structure.