Social comparison theory

High school (ages 12+)
Thinking & Learning

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/social-comparison-theory

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the foundational proponent?Leon Festinger, 1954
2. What is the primary function?To achieve accurate self-evaluation and reduce subjective uncertainty
3. Why do we compare ourselves to others?Because we want to know if we are doing okay, especially when we don't have clear rules to judge ourselves. It helps reduce uncertainty.
4. What are upward and downward comparisons?Upward comparison is looking at someone better to get inspired, but it can make us feel sad. Downward comparison is looking at someone less well-off to feel better about ourselves.

Social Comparison Theory: A psychological theory proposing that individuals evaluate their own opinions and abilities by comparing them to others.
Upward Social Comparison: The act of comparing oneself to individuals perceived as superior, often serving as a motivator for self-improvement.
Downward Social Comparison: The act of comparing oneself to individuals perceived as inferior, frequently utilized to enhance self-esteem and well-being.