What type of social status is linked to characteristics that can be altered, such as race and gender?

The appropriate answer is achieved status. This type of social status is based on personal choices, actions, and accomplishments that individuals can change through their efforts. Unlike ascribed status, which is assigned at birth and involves traits such as race and gender—characteristics that individuals cannot change—achieved status reflects a person's abilities, education, and achievements in life.

For example, a person might achieve a certain status through education, work experience, or social contributions, demonstrating that their efforts and choices can influence their social position. This distinction is crucial in sociology, as it highlights the degree to which individuals have the power to shape their identities and social trajectories based on their actions rather than being constrained by inherent characteristics assigned at birth.