The Social Comparison Theory and Social Media
How it Shapes Our Thoughts and Behaviours
Did you know that social comparison is a natural human behaviour that has been around for a long time? According to Festinger's social comparison theory, we compare ourselves to others in order to evaluate our own abilities and opinions, which can improve our self-esteem and reduce uncertainty (Buunk & Gibbons, 2007).
Over time, social comparison has served various functions, such as identifying social hierarchies and evaluating our own qualities and abilities. As we've evolved, so has social comparison culture in response to social and technological changes. For example, social comparison has played a role in the development of human culture and technology, as individuals compared their skills and tools with others and were motivated to improve upon them (Fiske, 2018).
Social Comparison In Modern Society
In modern society, social media has given rise to a pervasive culture of comparison. Other than the social comparison theory, millennials often compare themselves to others on social media for several reasons:
Highlight Reel Syndrome: Social media often presents a curated and idealized version of people's lives, which can create a sense of pressure to present a similarly perfect image of oneself.
FOMO: Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is a common phenomenon, and social media can amplify feelings of exclusion or isolation.
Validation and Recognition: Likes, comments, and followers on social media can be seen as a measure of popularity or social status, which can create a sense of validation and recognition.
Influence of advertising: Social media advertising often presents aspirational lifestyles and products, which can create a sense of desire to attain those same standards.
These factors, combined with the constant availability of social media, can lead to a tendency to compare oneself to others and feel inadequate. It's important to recognise the impact that social media can have on our self-esteem and mental health, and take steps to manage our social media use in a healthy way.
The negative side of social comparison
Excessive exposure to curated and idealized images of others on social media can result in comparison overload; overwhelm and negative feelings such as envy, loneliness, and a sense of inadequacy (Fardouly et al., 2017). This phenomenon can also result in constant competition, financial strain, and feelings of dissatisfaction. Moreover, it can lead to the erosion of social connections and contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression (Fardouly et al., 2015; Vogel et al., 2014).
The positive side of social comparison
However, social comparison can also have positive consequences when used constructively. One positive consequence is that it can inspire us to set and achieve goals. By comparing ourselves to successful or accomplished individuals, we may feel motivated to work harder and strive for greater success (Lockwood & Kunda, 1997). Social comparison can also help us develop a sense of identity and purpose by gaining a better understanding of our own strengths, weaknesses, and values. This can help millennials define their personal goals and values, and make choices that align with them (Buunk & Gibbons, 2007). Additionally, social comparison can help build social connections and a sense of community, leading to supportive and meaningful social relationships (Lockwood & Kunda, 1997).
How Technology and Social Media are Shaping Millennial Social Lives
In the digital age, technology and social media have reshaped the way millennials interact with one another. While these changes have brought benefits, it's essential to be mindful of their effects and strive for a healthy balance between online and offline interactions. Understanding how technology and social media impact our social lives is the first step, so let's take a look at some ways in which they have influenced our social behaviours:
Increased connectivity: Social media platforms and messaging apps have made it easier for millennials to stay connected with friends and family, regardless of their physical location.
Changing social norms: Social media has led to changes in social norms, with millennials often expecting immediate responses to messages and social interactions being increasingly mediated through technology.
Decreased face-to-face interaction: The ease and convenience of online communication has led to a decline in face-to-face interaction among millennials, which can impact our ability to build and maintain strong relationships.
Heightened social comparison: Social media often creates a curated and idealized version of people's lives, which can lead to social comparison and feelings of inadequacy.
Increased opportunities for social support: Online support groups and mental health resources have become increasingly popular and accessible, which can provide valuable support to those struggling with mental health challenges.
Rise of digital dating: The rise of dating apps and online dating has changed the landscape of dating for millennials, providing a new platform for meeting potential partners and romantic relationships.
How to Manage Social Comparison in the Age of Social Media
You probably get the point: social comparison is a natural aspect of social life, but it can also be detrimental to our mental well-being if we are not mindful of it.
It's important to recognise that social comparison has always been a part of human behaviour, and it has served important functions throughout history (Fiske, 2018). As a life coach, I encourage you to use social comparison constructively, to achieve your goals and develop a sense of identity, purpose, and community – While keeping in mind the potential negative consequences.
To keep social comparison healthy, it is essential to recognise and manage it. Here are some tips to help you:
Recognise when you're engaging in social comparison: Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings when you're looking at social media or interacting with others. Are you feeling envious or insecure? Are you comparing your life to others? Recognising when you're engaging in social comparison is the first step to managing it.
Challenge negative thoughts: If you find yourself engaging in negative self-talk or making assumptions about others based on their social media posts, challenge those thoughts. Ask yourself if they're accurate or helpful, and reframe them in a more positive or realistic way.
Focus on your own goals and values: Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own goals and values. What's important to you? What do you want to achieve? When you focus on your own goals, you're less likely to be distracted by what others are doing.
Practice gratitude: Gratitude can help counteract feelings of envy or insecurity. Take time each day to reflect on what you're thankful for in your life, and appreciate the good things you have.
Take breaks from social media: If you find that social media is fuelling negative thoughts and feelings, take a break from it. Limit your time on social media, or take a complete break for a few days or weeks.
If you are interested in exploring how to keep social comparison healthy and improve your well-being, feel free to reach out to me. I would be happy to provide guidance and support as we work together towards your goals.
