What is the implication of having a low similarity of opinions in Social Comparison Theory?

What is the implication of having a low similarity of opinions in Social Comparison Theory?

• A. Increased tendency to compare oneself with others
• B. Decreased tendency to make comparisons
• C. More frequent changes in one's opinions
• D. No impact on social comparisons

Answer: (B)

In the context of Social Comparison Theory, a low similarity of opinions suggests that individuals perceive themselves as quite different from those around them. This perceived difference may lead to a decreased tendency to engage in social comparisons because individuals feel that comparing themselves to others would not provide meaningful or relevant insights into their own opinions or behaviors. When people encounter a diverse range of opinions, they might be less motivated to measure their own self-worth or abilities against those who hold differing views, as the comparison may not be applicable. This can lead to less frequent evaluations of oneself relative to others when the perceived similarities are low, resulting in a diminished tendency to compare. The other options don't align with the premise. Increased tendency to compare oneself with others would suggest that people are seeking out differences or similarities, which contradicts the implications of low similarity. The idea of more frequent changes in one's opinions or no impact on social comparisons doesn’t hold, as both would imply ongoing interaction and evaluation against differing opinions.

In the context of Social Comparison Theory, a low similarity of opinions suggests that individuals perceive themselves as quite different from those around them. This perceived difference may lead to a decreased tendency to engage in social comparisons because individuals feel that comparing themselves to others would not provide meaningful or relevant insights into their own opinions or behaviors. When people encounter a diverse range of opinions, they might be less motivated to measure their own self-worth or abilities against those who hold differing views, as the comparison may not be applicable. This can lead to less frequent evaluations of oneself relative to others when the perceived similarities are low, resulting in a diminished tendency to compare.

The other options don't align with the premise. Increased tendency to compare oneself with others would suggest that people are seeking out differences or similarities, which contradicts the implications of low similarity. The idea of more frequent changes in one's opinions or no impact on social comparisons doesn’t hold, as both would imply ongoing interaction and evaluation against differing opinions.