Final answer:
A status that one occupies that cuts across other statuses they hold is known as their master status. It is the most defining status of an individual, affecting their social identity greatly. Disabilities can contribute to a person earning a master status, especially if it overshadows their other statuses.
Step-by-step explanation:
A status that cuts across other statuses someone holds, such as being a high-ranking Army officer, a college president, or a handicapped Olympian, is referred to as a person's master status. This is the status that is most important and influences most areas of a person's life. It is not necessarily tied to a job or economic position but can significantly affect social identity and how individuals are perceived by others. For example, in the case of a handicapped Olympian, their identity as an Olympian may overshadow their other statuses and roles, thereby becoming their master status.
Occupational prestige is related to the concept of social status, where certain jobs are not equally valued and confer varying levels of social standing. The societal role associated with one's occupation can significantly influence how they are perceived in terms of social stratification.