Social comparison refers to comparing oneself to others to evaluate how well one is doing relative to them in some domain. Social comparison can be either upward or downward. Upward comparisons involve comparing oneself to those who are better off than oneself while downward comparisons involve comparing oneself to those who are worse off. Social media provides an endless array of people for whom users may make such comparisons, including celebrities, influencers, acquaintances, friends, strangers, and even fictional characters. People often compare themselves to others online in ways that may amplify or diminish their own satisfaction with their sexual reality.
If someone sees posts about sexual encounters on social media, they might feel more satisfied with their own sexual life if they have had similar experiences or less satisfied if they haven't.
Social media also allows for more frequent and varied comparison opportunities as compared to face-to-face interactions. This can lead to a phenomenon called 'the paradox of choice,' whereby having too many options makes it harder to choose. In terms of sexuality, this could mean feeling like there are so many potential partners available through dating apps that one never finds a suitable match.
Social media may create an illusion of intimacy by allowing users to see into the lives of other people without truly knowing them, which can distort perceptions of what is normal or desirable.
Social media can contribute to feelings of dissatisfaction or envy regarding one's own sex life.
Social media can also provide a forum for connecting with others who share similar interests and preferences, leading to greater satisfaction with one's sexual reality. Users can find support from like-minded individuals, learn new techniques or ideas, and feel more confident in exploring their desires. Social media can be particularly beneficial for those whose sexuality differs from societal norms, such as LGBTQ+ individuals, providing access to communities and resources that may not otherwise be available. Moreover, social media can serve as a tool for finding sexual partners, either through online dating or casual encounters. This can increase the number of potential sexual experiences available, potentially resulting in increased satisfaction.
How does social comparison through social media amplify or diminish satisfaction with one's sexual reality?
Social comparison on social media can both amplify and diminish people's satisfaction with their sexual realities depending on various factors such as personal preferences, social norms, and social relationships. When individuals compare themselves to others who seem sexually appealing or desirable, they may feel dissatisfied with their own body shape, appearance, and performance. This can lead to negative feelings of self-doubt and anxiety.