What type of status is conferred on a child at birth?

At birth, a child receives what is known as ascribed status. This type of status is one that individuals have little to no control over, as it is typically assigned based on characteristics that are inherent at birth, such as race, gender, and family heritage. Ascribed statuses are often distinguished from achieved statuses, which are earned or acquired through personal choices, actions, or achievements later in life.

The concept of ascribed status plays a significant role in sociological discussions about how social structures and expectations influence an individual's life experiences and opportunities. It ties directly to the social roles and norms that are expected of individuals based on their inherent characteristics from the very beginning of their lives, thus shaping their identity within society.