Which of the following refers to a social position attained largely through one's own efforts?

Achieved status refers to a social position that an individual attains as a result of their own personal choices, actions, talents, and efforts. This concept highlights the idea that individuals can influence their social standing and personal outcomes through hard work, skills, and initiative. For example, a person may achieve a respected position in society through education, career advancement, or personal accomplishments, demonstrating how social mobility can occur based on individual achievements.

In contrast, ascribed status is a social position one is born into, based on characteristics such as race, gender, family background, or age. Social status encompasses both ascribed and achieved statuses and does not specifically differentiate how the status was obtained. Prestigious status can describe a high standing in society, but it does not specifically address the process of achieving that status. Thus, achieved status is the most accurate term for referring to social positions attained through one's own efforts.