Group Status as Multilevel Phenomenon

This essay discusses the future of research on group status using a multilevel perspective. Although status is inherently multilevel, researchers in this domain have not fully leveraged this perspective in their empirical studies. We identify three ways group status can, and should, be represented as a multilevel phenomenon: when status ratings are obtained from multiple observers, when individual member status ratings are used to compose group status perceptions or hierarchies, and when status changes dynamically over time. We hope this essay encourages scholars to more fully embrace a multilevel approach, which is essential for advancing research on status in small groups and beyond.