The Psychology of Social Comparison | Ahlia Koram | TEDxTSIS

Social Comparison & Psychology - Social comparison is an innate human behavior stemming from the need for self-understanding and survival [3] - Social comparison bridges the gap when objective measures are insufficient, allowing individuals to set benchmarks [4] - Social comparison can lead to decreased motivation, reduced self-esteem, and even depression [7] Social Media Impact - Social media is a major driver of social comparison in the modern world, presenting idealized versions of people's lives [8] - Social comparison on social media can cause low self-esteem and depressive symptoms [9] - Social media algorithms amplify social comparison by prioritizing engaging content, often highlighting successes and achievements [10] Gratitude as a Solution - Adopting an attitude of gratitude involves consciously appreciating the good things in life [12] - Practicing gratitude can lead to more pro-social behavior, better self-esteem, and improved sleep [12] - Decoupling self-worth from others' achievements is key to combating harmful social comparison [13]