Ascribed Status - GCSE Sociology Definition

Ascribed status refers to a social position that an individual is born into or assigned involuntarily, largely determined by factors beyond their control, such as ethnicity, social class, gender, and family background. For example, a person might be born into a particular social class that affords them certain privileges and expectations throughout their life.

In GCSE Sociology, it's important to understand that ascribed status contrasts with achieved status, which is gained through personal effort and choices. These concepts show how societal structures and inequalities are maintained and reproduced over time.