Self-perception and behavior do not occur in a social vacuum: who we are, and what we do, is often a function of what other people are and do. Others can inform us of who we are ("I am the only sane person here"), or where we stand ("I am quite intelligent compared to him"); others can inspire us ("I want to be like her"), or discourage us ("I can never be like her"). In effect, social comparison is a fundamental process of self-conception through the perception of others-self, as it is identified with others. Social Comparison Theories: Key Readings offers a core and...
Self-perception and behavior do not occur in a social vacuum: who we are, and what we do, is often a function of what other people are and do. Others ...
