This paper integrates theory and research on the adolescent society into a comprehensive model of the status attainment process. The analysis reveals that a multidimensional conception of the adolescent role informs understanding of the dynamics of the status attainment process; that perceived peer status does not mediate antecedent effects on aspirations and attainments controlling on significant other influences; and that personality traits operate as selection mechanisms for peer group identifications, aspirations and attainments. The sample consists of a 17 year-old male age cohort of high school seniors studied in 1957 (N=442) and again 15 years later in 1972 (N=340). Estimates are based on structured equation models. (Author)