Pack Dynamics
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about pack dynamics. Similar to the way wolves have a hierarchy, behaviour is dictated by position, or perceived position, in the group. What makes this interesting to me, is the difference between explicit hierarchy (seniority, job title, etc) and unspoken hierarchy (popularity, reputation, intellect, etc.)
Status has to be respected, as it directly impacts the decision making / approval process. At the same time, leadership in working groups often follows a different hierarchy than official position. The tension between who is in charge, and who is identified as a leader socially, creates a potential for conflict that limits the openness of official leaders, and the efficacy of unspoken leaders.
In purely social settings, pack dynamics lead to conflict in jockeying for position. Insults, actions, and risks are often informed by a belief that the outcome will be a shift in pack position - a transition from beta to alpha, for example. While this is complex enough in a friendship, it is much moreso in a professional setting, where the quality of work, or risk involved in a strategy can be impacted by a single individual fighting to shift their role.
Social position, and the power available with it, is often a greater motivation than income. In addition to social influence, it also promises respect.
In terms of manipulating behaviour, hijacking the innate desire to maintain, or shift to, a leading position in your “pack” is something to watch. It’s important not to see this as a purely masculine motivation, or a desire for respect alone. Pack dynamics are inherently about being part of a team, and identifying leaders, guiding forces. I think anyone can relate, to some degree.
