Social Comparison Theory

Question 1

What are the three different kinds of comparisons that are discussed in this chapter? Under what circumstances do people make those kinds of comparisons?

Answer 1

1) Lateral comparisons: *comparing yourself with people who are similar
-Used for self-evaluation: compare yourself with cohort members on a test grade to evaluate how you did

2) Upward comparisons: comparing yourself with those who are better off
-Used for self improvement: look at those who perform better to gather info about how to make personal improvements

3) Downward comparison: comparing yourself with those who are worse off
-Used for self enhancement: Perceiving oneself as better off boosts self-esteem, reduces anxiety, and generates positive affect.
** in contrast seeing someone who is better off may diminish self-esteem and produce negative affect

Question 2

What are the emotional consequences of using identification or contrast to make upward or downward comparisons

Answer 2

1) “Positive” emotional consequences:
-Upward identification: strengthens the belief that it is possible and likely for one to become like the upward comparison target
-Downward contrast: leads to the comforting conclusion that one is not so bad off after all

2) “Negative” emotional consequences:
-Upward contrast: Individuals suffering from body dissatisfaction and depression tend to engage in upward contrast comparisons, focusing on the differences between themselves and others who are more beautiful/doing better, and they may feel dissatisfied and inferior as a consequence

Question 3

What is social comparison orientation?

Answer 3

-Social comparison orientation (SCO): the differences between the extent to which and the frequency with which people compare themselves with others

People with a high SCO:
-Seek out more comparisons, have more emotional reactions when comparing and base personal risk perceptions on comparisons
-Spend more time engaging in comparisons - leads to a higher awareness of self and increased interest in what others think
-These individuals have a degree of uncertainty/negative affect
-More interested and more affected by social comparisons, but more affected by them (compared to individuals with low SCO)