Redefining The Pursuit of Status: Investigating The Effects of Vertical Versus Horizontal Striving On Perceptions of Victimization

Authors:

Abstract: Although status-striving motivation is universal, in organizations it is often assumed to manifest as a vertical, rank-advancing trajectory within the social hierarchy. In this paper, we reevaluate this assumption and introduce the concept of 'horizontal striving,' where employees aim to expand their work responsibilities while maintaining their current position, thus gaining respect without rank advancement. We hypothesize and test, using two archival datasets, that a relative emphasis on vertical striving over horizontal striving is linked to increased feelings of victimization and subsequent psychological distress. Our comparative approach in examining status-striving motivation highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of status dynamics and their impacts on employee experiences and well-being.

Track: TEAM

Keywords: Status striving; social hierarchy; victimization; psychological distress