Ascription and achievement in marriage

Ascription in marriage refers to relationships where social status, age, or family background influences union formation—such as arranged marriages or marriages within certain social classes. Achievement, on the other hand, involves personal effort, accomplishments, and compatibility driving marriage decisions, like choosing a partner based on love, education, or career success. In essence, ascriptive marriages are often based on inherited or social factors, while achievement-based marriages emphasize individual qualities and personal merit.