In sociology, the distinction between __________ and achieved status is critical for understanding how societal roles are formed. Ascribed status is typically assigned at birth, while achieved status is earned through personal effort.

In sociology, the distinction between ascribed status and achieved status is important for understanding how people fit into society. Ascribed status is a social position that someone is born into, such as being a daughter, son, or member of a certain ethnicity. For example, if someone is born into a royal family, their status as a prince or princess is ascribed because it is given to them without any effort on their part. On the other hand, achieved status is earned through actions and choices, like becoming a doctor or an athlete, which requires hard work and dedication. This difference helps us see how some roles in society are fixed at birth, while others can change based on individual achievements.