According to the Social Comparison Theory, we compare ourselves to other people, to better understand our own abilities, opinions and success [1].
- Upward Comparison: comparing ourselves to people who are better than us
- Downward Comparison: comparing ourselves to people worse than us
Depending on the way you compare with others, there can be positive and negative effects!
Upward Comparison
| Positive | Negative |
|---|---|
| Become motivated to improve ourselves | Become inferior and jealous |
Real-life examples:
These couples make relationships look so easy. They never fight, unlike us.
Downward Comparison
| Positive | Negative |
|---|---|
| Boosts self-esteem and reduces anxiety | Become unhappy and insecure because we know that our situation can turn bad |
Real-life examples:
When I see these couples fight, I’m grateful for my relationship. It could be a lot worse!
What is Social Comparison?