Event Type
Research Presentation
Academic Department
Psychology
Location
Dana Science Building, 2nd floor
Start Date
25-4-2025 1:00 PM
End Date
25-4-2025 2:30 PM
Description
Under the direction of Dr. Alex Wooten
Social comparison is a powerful psychological process that can shape how individuals perceive themselves, particularly during the formative college years. This independent study explored how different types of social comparison like upward, downward, and social media-based influence self-esteem among college students. Grounded in Festinger’s (1954) Social Comparison Theory, the project examined existing research to understand the patterns and psychological effects of these comparisons. The literature review indicated that upward social comparison, particularly on social media, is frequently associated with lower self-esteem (Festinger, 1954), while downward comparison may offer temporary self-enhancement (Wills, 1981). These insights highlight the importance of awareness around comparison habits and the potential mental health implications for college students. This study lays the groundwork for future research by providing a deeper understanding of how different types of social comparison can affect self-esteem. It highlights the need for continued exploration of these processes, particularly in the context of social media, and suggests that interventions aimed at reducing harmful comparison habits could benefit college students’ mental health and self-perception. Future studies could build on these findings to develop strategies that help individuals cultivate a healthier relationship with social comparison and improve overall well-being.
Looking Up or Falling Down? The Impact of Social Comparison on College Students’ Self-Esteem
Dana Science Building, 2nd floor
Under the direction of Dr. Alex Wooten
Social comparison is a powerful psychological process that can shape how individuals perceive themselves, particularly during the formative college years. This independent study explored how different types of social comparison like upward, downward, and social media-based influence self-esteem among college students. Grounded in Festinger’s (1954) Social Comparison Theory, the project examined existing research to understand the patterns and psychological effects of these comparisons. The literature review indicated that upward social comparison, particularly on social media, is frequently associated with lower self-esteem (Festinger, 1954), while downward comparison may offer temporary self-enhancement (Wills, 1981). These insights highlight the importance of awareness around comparison habits and the potential mental health implications for college students. This study lays the groundwork for future research by providing a deeper understanding of how different types of social comparison can affect self-esteem. It highlights the need for continued exploration of these processes, particularly in the context of social media, and suggests that interventions aimed at reducing harmful comparison habits could benefit college students’ mental health and self-perception. Future studies could build on these findings to develop strategies that help individuals cultivate a healthier relationship with social comparison and improve overall well-being.