Social Comparisons

Term Paper # 101618

Psychology > Social

Social Comparisons

This paper explores the social comparison theory and its processes.

2,005 words () | 3 sources | APA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the social comparison theory in four sections, first by exploring a journal article that explored the theory in the United States and China. The paper also analyzes a mass media example in the context of social comparison. A personal example is then provided within an academic setting to see how the real life-scenario works. Finally, the theory was examined in an ethical context.

Outline:
Abstract
Social Comparison, Individualism-Collectivism, and Self-Esteem in China and the United States by Chung and Mallery
Mass Media Example of the Social Comparison Theory
Personal Example of Social Comparison Theory
Social Comparison Theory and Ethics

From the Paper:

"Chung and Mallery (1999) "examined the possible differences in social comparison between individualistic and collectivistic cultures" using the United States and China for the sample (para. 1). Chung and Mallery predicted that based on past research, collectivistic cultures, where individuals focused on achievements that would be beneficial to a collective group rather than themselves, would be positively correlated with upward social comparison, while the contrary would be true for individualistic cultures. In essence the a priori expectation is that "upward comparisons were positively correlated with individual self-esteem, and downward comparisons were negatively correlated with collective self-esteem" (Chung & Mallery, 1999, para 14)."

Sample of Sources Used:

Chung, T. & Mallery, T. (1999). Social comparison, individualism-collectivism, and self-esteem in China and the United States. Current Psychology, 18(4), 340. Retrieved February 3, 2007 from the Health & Wellness Resource Center Database.
Poran, M. (2002, July). Denying diversity: Perceptions of beauty and social comparison processes among Latina, Black, and White Women. Sex Roles: A Journal of Research, 65-81. Retrieved February 3, 2007 from the Health & Wellness Resource Center Database.
Stiles, B. (2004). Adverse social comparison processes and negative self-feelings: A test of alternative models. Social Behavior and Personality. Retrieved February 3, 2007, from http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3852/is_200401/ai_n9352286