This article considers the role of the status characteristics hypothesis during the operation of penal sanctions. After a brief theoretical review of this hypothesis within a labelling theory perspective, its limits and the revised theories, the issue is studied mainly through the North American literature and the concepts of the moral entrepreneur (Becker, 1963) and domination (Weber, 2013). These concepts assist in a consideration of the essential role of status characteristics in the social reintegration process, as well as during penal sanctions. The importance of status characteristics is considered as it applies both to convicted persons and to professionals working inside the criminal justice system.