Which of the following best describes the concept of achieved status?

Achieved status refers to a social position that an individual attains as a result of their own actions, efforts, and accomplishments. This can include factors such as education level, career achievements, and personal goals that are pursued and realized through determination and hard work. It is contrasted with ascribed status, which is assigned at birth and involves factors outside of personal control, such as ethnicity, family background, or societal class.

The idea behind achieved status emphasizes the role of individual agency and the impact of personal decisions in shaping one’s social identity and standing. It suggests that through perseverance and initiative, individuals have the potential to elevate their status in society, reflecting the values of meritocracy and personal responsibility in many cultures.

Other options inaccurately define achieved status or conflate it with traits that do not align with its meaning. For instance, being determined by birth and family pertains to ascribed status. Suggesting that achieved status is always indicative of high social standing is misleading since individuals can achieve different statuses that may not correspond to wealth or prestige. Lastly, claiming that achieved status is unchangeable contradicts the very nature of the concept, which is about accomplishments that can fluctuate over time.