What Is Social Comparison Theory And How Does It Affect You | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

What Is Social Comparison Theory And How Does It Affect You

FYI: It definitely affects you and your self-worth.

305
What Is Social Comparison Theory And How Does It Affect You
Unsplash

The need to understand the self is very strong. We all want to make sense of who we are and what our purpose is. One of the theories that attempts to explain how we do so is Social Comparison Theory.

What is this theory, you might ask? According to Psychology Today, Social Comparison Theory states, "We determine our own social and personal worth based on how we stack up against others." This means that we use our similarities and differences to describe ourselves. We compare ourselves to other people to figure out who we are.

This theory outlines a way in which we self-assess based on other's lives. We compare our actions and see where we think they lie. If we perform the same duties as someone who is successful in their career, we might assume that we are also successful because we did the same things they did.

Brian Clark on Copyblogger points out an interesting feature of this theory. In his article about Contrast storytelling, he says, "We seek to emulate others who we perceive as doing better than us, but only if we feel similar enough to them that their status is achievable. " What he is implying here, is that we only like to compare ourselves to people we feel we can become. His article details how to use this theory to sell your product with contrast storytelling.

What I really want to dive into, however, is how we compare ourselves. When someone closely aligns with us, we like to find ways in which we are similar to boost our own self-worth. When we get caught up comparing ourselves to someone we feel disconnected from, it can send us spiraling into depression.

With social media being so popular, it's a lot easier for us to exercise the principles of this theory. We have many images and influencers to compare ourselves to. They are streamlining products with their use of this theory. They know that people who want to be like them will buy the products they use, so they strike up deals with companies that fit their brand.

When someone buys that product, they feel connected to that influencer and they self-assess that using the product increases their self-worth because that amazing person they follow used it too. It's honestly an amazing way to look at social influencers and wonder why they are successful.

We like to know that we are doing our best, and when someone we align with tells us that the product we use is amazing or that the lifestyle we have is the best, we feel good about ourselves. That is the essence of this theory.

Social Comparison Theory is certainly something I find interesting. I feel that with social media it has truly become a well-known theory that businesses are using to promote their products and services. I feel that this theory highlights humans' need for social interaction. We all enjoy being around other people to an extent, and we love having someone to look up to.

When we have a hero that closely relates to our lifestyle and our personal opinion of ourselves, it feels good to know that they also struggle with things we do and use the products we use every day.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

15476
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

6682
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4936
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4336
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments