What is a master status?

A master status is identified as the most significant status a person holds, which tends to dominate their other statuses in social contexts. This status can shape an individual's identity and how they are perceived by society. For instance, a person's master status could be their occupation, ethnicity, or disability, which significantly influences their social interactions and can dictate the roles they assume in various contexts.

When a master status is present, it often overshadows other statuses an individual may hold, such as being a parent, a member of a particular social group, or having certain affiliations. The concept highlights how certain identities can take precedence and fundamentally affect a person’s life experiences and societal interactions. Recognizing the importance of a master status helps in understanding social dynamics and the complexities of identity within social hierarchies.