Patterns of behavior that we recognize in each other that are representative of a person's social status are called what?

• A. Roles
• B. Status
• C. Ascribed status
• D. Achieved status

Answer: (A)

This question tests the distinction between a social position and the behavior expected from it. The patterns of behavior we notice in others that signal their place in a social hierarchy are the roles that come with a given status. A status is the position someone holds—like teacher, student, or parent—while the role is the set of expectations about how someone in that position should act. So when you recognize specific behaviors as typical for someone’s position, you’re identifying the role associated with that status. For example, the role of a teacher includes guiding students, presenting material, and assessing progress. Ascribed status refers to attributes you’re born with or cannot change, and achieved status is earned through actions, but neither is the behavioral pattern itself the role.