https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-psychology-of-social/

It states (in accordance to RP philosophy) that those who are high status have access to most resources, best mates, etc. Duh, we all knew that. However, their description of a high-status individual seems much less RP: those with high self-esteem tend to be kinder to low status individuals, engage in less bullying, be less aggressive and violent. It suggests that one should go about increasing their social status by being likable to the group (when you're in a group with which you have social connections) and by providing to that group (being fun to be around).

On the other hand, we have shit-tests, where people push you to determine how strong your frame is. I've often read on TRP that those who are high status shit-test the hardest. Doesn't that seem to contradict the article? I've had experiences where people seemed to show signs of disrespect immediately upon meeting me. How do these things fit together? How do I react to someone that I met five minutes ago sushing me or being overtly disrespectful?

From my experiences, it seems as though the people who disrespect others are the ones who are ahead in the status game.

Another key aspect to social status is something that I feel is completely out of my control: gossip. What do you guys think about gossip and its role in the RP lifestyle? I started off the year with a wonderful reputation that slowly sunk until I became near the bottom of the totem pole.

Sorry if this is a bit rambling, but I've been trying to rethink my approach to the RP lifestyle. I went through a phase of being a complete asshole to everyone and now I'm not a very well respected person. I'm trying to figure out how to improve my reputation, so honestly any advice pertaining to that is welcome here.