Which one of the the following will be categorized as an achieved status?

Correct option is D

MARITAL STATUS

In sociology, the concept of achieved status refers to a social position that a person attains through their own efforts, actions, or choices. Achieved status is typically something that can be influenced by the individual’s behaviors, decisions, and actions over time. This contrasts with ascribed status, which is assigned to an individual at birth or involuntarily later in life, based on attributes such as sex, age, or caste.

Why "Marital Status" is Correct:

• Marital Status is categorized as an achieved status because it is based on a person's decision and actions. A person achieves a marital status through their choice to marry, remain single, or divorce. It is a result of actions that are under the individual's control and decision-making.

Information Booster:

• Achieved Status: This status is earned or chosen, and it reflects an individual's actions, efforts, and accomplishments. Examples of achieved status include being a professional, an athlete, or a spouse (through the choice to marry).

• Ascribed Status: In contrast to achieved status, ascribed status is given to an individual at birth or involuntarily later in life. This can include characteristics such as:

  • Sex: You are assigned a sex at birth (male or female), which is not something you can change by your own actions.
  • Age: Age is another ascribed status because it is determined by the passing of time, and it cannot be chosen or changed by an individual.
  • Caste: In certain societies, caste is an ascribed status assigned at birth and usually remains fixed throughout one's life, regardless of the individual's actions or accomplishments.

Additional Information:

• Option 1 (Sex): Sex is considered an ascribed status. It is determined at birth based on biological characteristics and cannot be chosen or changed by the individual.

• Option 2 (Age): Age is also an ascribed status. It is determined by the passage of time, and one has no control over their age.

• Option 3 (Caste): Caste is an ascribed status in many societies, especially in India, where it is assigned at birth and is generally fixed for life.