We extend recent commentary about socioemotional wealth by reviewing theory and offering suggestions aimed at enhancing the correspondence between the theoretical construct and its empirical correlate. While it is clear that the field has made vast strides since its introduction in 2007, the research literature remains diverse and disjointed: an outcome we attribute, in part, to the use of underspecified research models. We hope our suggestions help researchers establish a robust methodological foundation on which future research can build.