What is a master status in sociology?

This lesson provides examples of master status, and describes the importance it plays in our lives and the lives of everyone around us. read more

Social Sciences. Put simply, a master status is the defining social position a person holds, meaning the title the person most relates to when trying to express him or herself to others. In sociology, it is a concept that lies at the core of a person's social identity and influences that person's roles and behaviors in a societal context. read more

Master status is a term in sociology used to describe the status of greatest importance in a particular person's life. This can be based on any status, such as your gender, ethnicity, skin tone, physical and mental health or ability, economic status, sexual orientation, religious or spiritual tradition, employment status, occupation or family responsibility, such as a parent or grandparent. read more

A: In sociology, master status refers to a primary or core social position that supersedes all other statuses making up a person’s identity and personality. This master status influences nearly every decision and action a person makes in their daily life. read more

Put simply, a master status is the defining social position a person holds, meaning the title the person most relates to when trying to express him or herself to others. In sociology, it is a concept that lies at the core of a person's social identity and influences that person's roles and behaviors in a societal context. read more

In sociology, master status refers to a primary or core social position that supersedes all other statuses making up a person’s identity and personality. This master status influences nearly every decision and action a person makes in their daily life. read more