What is an Ascribed Identity? Understanding the Difference with Examples

An ascribed identity is a social status assigned to you at birth or involuntarily later in life. This contrasts with an 'achieved identity,' which is earned based on your skills, efforts, or choices. Let's look at the example of being an NJUPT student:

• Why being an NJUPT student is NOT an ascribed identity: You choose to apply to and attend NJUPT. It's an accomplishment and a status you choose, making it an achieved identity.

Here's why the other options are usually considered ascribed identities:

• Your identity as a Chinese citizen: In most cases, citizenship is determined at birth based on where you're born and your parents' nationality.
• Your identity as a male/female: Biological sex is assigned at birth.
• Your identity as a son/daughter in your family: Your position within your family is determined by birth order and family structure, not personal achievement.