Ascribed statuses result from a) chance b) effort c) ability d) choice
Ascribed statuses result from a) chance b) effort c) ability d) choice
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct answer: a) chance
Explanation
Ascribed statuses are social positions that individuals are born into or acquire involuntarily, without regard to their choices, efforts, or abilities. These statuses are assigned at birth or assumed involuntarily later in life and are typically unchangeable or difficult to change.
Examples of ascribed statuses include race, ethnicity, gender, age, and social class of origin. These are characteristics that people inherit or are given by society and culture without any personal input or action. For instance, a person does not choose to be born into a wealthy or poor family, nor do they select their ethnicity or biological sex at birth. These factors are determined by chance, not by the individual’s will, choices, or efforts.
This distinguishes ascribed statuses from achieved statuses, which are earned or acquired through personal effort, skills, or choices—such as becoming a doctor, athlete, or artist. Achieved statuses reflect the individual’s abilities, goals, and determination.
Sociologically, ascribed statuses are significant because they often influence the opportunities and limitations a person may face in life. For example, being born into a high social class may provide better education and healthcare, while someone from a marginalized ethnic group might face systemic barriers. These statuses often shape identity, social expectations, and how others perceive or treat an individual.
In summary, the defining feature of ascribed statuses is that they are not under the individual’s control and arise by chance rather than through effort, ability, or choice. Therefore, the correct answer is a) chance, because it emphasizes the involuntary and often immutable nature of these social roles.
