Do you mean somebody trying to get higher on a social/work ladder in an unnatural way? I think it's about creating an illusion for themselves, some may also believe it will cause people to treat them better. I'm not familiar with something like that, but I've seen people in positions who were doing what they did probable more for the idea of being someone (influential, important or special) than providing quality work/support.

For your second question, depens a bit on what kind of behavior they have, but I'd say avoid them when it comes to interacting with them if and when possible, act normal, professional, neutral, unemotional, stay yourself, like nothing is going on.