User:Lbecmer2/Ascribed status

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Sociological Term: Ascribed Status

Coined by Ralph Linton

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Ascribed status is a term used in sociology that refers to the social status of a person that is assigned at birth or assumed involuntarily later in life. The status is a position that is neither earned by the person nor chosen for them. Rather, the ascribed status is assigned based on social and cultural expectations, norms, and standards. These positions are occupied regardless of efforts or desires. These rigid social designations remain fixed throughout an individual’s life and are inseparable from the positive or negative stereotypes that are linked with one’s ascribed status.