In sociology, the master status is the social position that is the primary identifying characteristic of an individual. The term master status is defined as "a status that has exceptional importance for social identity, often shaping a person's entire life." Master status can be ascribed or achieved. Ascribed statuses are statuses born with—e.g., race, sex, etc. Achieved statuses are gained throughout life—e.g., mom, athlete, spouse, etc. When one of these statuses overpowers the others it can be determined as one's master status.