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| Version | Summary | Created by | Modification | Content Size | Created at | Operation |
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| 1 | Catherine Yang | -- | 157 | 2026-09-22 04:29:44 | | | |
| 2 | Catherine Yang | -9 word(s) | 148 | 2026-09-22 04:47:29 | | |
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Downward social comparison refers to the process of evaluating oneself in relation to another individual or group perceived as less advantaged, less successful, or lower on a relevant attribute or dimension [1][2]. It is a form of social comparison that differs from upward comparison, in which the comparison target is perceived as superior on the dimension being evaluated [3]. Downward comparisons may involve judgments of abilities, achievements, social status, health, appearance, or other personally relevant characteristics [2][4]. The comparison target may be selected deliberately or encountered incidentally, and the perceived difference between the self and the target can influence the meaning of the comparison [1][4]. Downward social comparison has been associated with self-evaluation and self-enhancement processes and may serve self-protective functions, particularly in situations involving threat, negative affect, or unfavorable self-evaluation. Its psychological consequences, however, depend on individual and situational factors.
References
- Wills, T. A. Downward Comparison Principles in Social Psychology. Psychol. Bull. 1981, 90(2), 245–271. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1981-30307-001.
- Wood, J. V. Theory and Research Concerning Social Comparisons of Personal Attributes. Psychol. Bull. 1989, 106(2), 231–248. https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0033-2909.106.2.231.
- Jerry Suls; René Martin; Ladd Wheeler; Social Comparison: Why, With Whom, and With What Effect?. Curr. Dir. Psychol. Sci. 2002, 11, 159-163. [CrossRef]
- Wheeler, L.; Miyake, K. Social Comparison in Everyday Life. J. Pers. Soc. Psychol. 1992, 62(5), 760–773. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1992-31131-001.
