Why is it that in some friend groups there seems to be 1 or 2 leaders who determine who can and cannot be allowed into the group and what is and isn’t acceptable. How can one move up in the hierarchy of the group and become more respected within the group?
In: Biology
We’re generally all very keen to be a part of a group, and this makes sense since groups give us loads of advantages, both in evolution and in modern life. But for those within a group already, it is best to ensure the group is fairly stable, as if the group changes the wrong way, they might lose their place. Therefore those in the group will create leaders and gladly submit to the leaders, since it makes guaranteeing their own membership of the group easier. Plus supporting the leader’s leadership generally boosts your position within the group (and position within the group brings additional benefits and safer group membership (at least until there’s a coup)).
To move up in the group’s hierarchy requires demonstrating your value to the group, and to the leader(s) of the group in particular, so that others want to be part of whatever group you are in. How value is demonstrated will vary depending on the nature of the group. It could be by being funny, or kind, or smart, or generous, or good looking, or good at a particular task or something as simple as having a nice dog.
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