Status Pursuit

Status pursuit is being motivated to seek and achieve a high social position or to be seen as importance in a group or society. Status pursuit is a continuous process, rather than a one-off endeavor. Some are satisfied with an average level of status, while others are rarely satisfied. Some want status as long as it doesn’t interfere with getting along well with others (affiliation motive), while others want status no matter what the cost. Relentlessly pursuing status can affect the choices we make, our interactions with others, and even our self-perception. Evolutionary psychologists suggest we’re naturally inclined to seek status because those with higher status often have greater access to resources, social influence, and opportunities. Social psychologists study how we navigate social hierarchies and influence others. Also see Status Pursuit in Narcissism (SPIN)