Continuing to look into the mirror
Neuronugget #4
Social comparison theory was initially proposed by psychologist Leon Festinger in 1954. Here’s what it entails:
Purpose: Individuals evaluate their opinions, abilities, and self-worth by comparing themselves to others. This comparison helps reduce uncertainty and defines their self-concept.
Types of Comparisons:
Upward Comparisons: We compare ourselves to those we perceive as superior. It can inspire growth but may lead to feelings of inadequacy.
Downward Comparisons: We compare ourselves to those worse off, boosting our self-esteem by highlighting relative advantages.
Impact: Social comparison affects self-esteem, mood, and how we perceive ourselves in relation to others. Factors like media influence and social status play a role.
Leon Festinger emphasized the importance of scientific experimentation and challenged behaviorism’s influence in social psychology.
I was extremely surprised to discover that Social Comparison Theory would be very much an integral part of my theory of wellbeing for those with Autism Spectrum Condition. When I set out to develop the theory I had an open mind to where the journey may take me, but I was not expecting that.
Can you think about how Social Comparison Theory helps us feel either part or apart? How does that affect your sense of self?
Loneliness does not come from having no people about one, but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to oneself, or from holding certain views which others find inadmissible.