[Multilevel model] Why the area-level variance was increased after added a contextual variable?

[penny]

I tried to run a multilevel model,

however, after I added a contextual variable into the model with individual-level variables,

I found the area-level variance was increased.

Although I tried to change the starting values of area-level variable,

but it still couldn't solve problem.

How can I do?

Thanks

[SteveDenham]

Can you share your code--both before adding the contextual variable and after, as well as any related material from the log?

Steve Denham