Social comparison is the process of comparing oneself to others in order to evaluate one's own abilities, performance, or worth. It can have both positive and negative effects on an individual's self-esteem. In recent years, research has shown that social comparison plays a significant role in influencing the self-esteem of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) adolescents. This essay will examine how social comparison influences self-esteem among LGBT adolescents, including factors such as social media usage, peer pressure, and family support.
Factors Influencing Social Comparison and Self-Esteem Among LGBT Adolescents
There are several factors that influence social comparison and self-esteem among LGBT adolescents. One factor is the use of social media, which can increase the likelihood of comparing oneself to other individuals who may be more attractive, successful, or popular than oneself. This can lead to feelings of inferiority and lowered self-esteem. Another factor is peer pressure, which can cause LGBT adolescents to compare themselves to peers who appear more heteronormative or cisgender, leading to feelings of exclusion and isolation.
Family support can play a crucial role in influencing self-esteem, with LGBT adolescents whose families are accepting and affirming of their identity feeling more secure and confident in their own skin.
How Does Social Comparison Affect Self-Esteem?
Social comparison can affect self-esteem by making an individual feel either good about himself/herself (through positive comparisons), or bad about him/herself (through negative comparisons). When LGBT adolescents compare themselves favorably to others, they may experience a boost in self-esteem.
When they make unfavorable comparisons, they may feel inadequate or inferior.
Social comparison can result in individuals seeking to conform to societal norms in order to fit in or be accepted, which may negatively impact their sense of authenticity and self-worth.
The Importance of Positive Peer Groups and Family Support
It is clear that social comparison plays an important role in shaping the self-esteem of LGBT adolescents. By encouraging positive peer groups and providing supportive family environments, adults can help foster healthy self-esteem among these young people. It is also essential for parents and other caregivers to model positive attitudes towards LGBT individuals and promote acceptance within their communities. With these supports in place, LGBT adolescents can develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence, leading to greater overall well-being and success.
How does social comparison influence self-esteem among LGBT adolescents?
Social comparison has been observed as an essential factor that shapes adolescent's self-esteem in a variety of settings. Studies have shown that individuals with high levels of self-esteem tend to compare themselves positively to others around them, while those who experience low levels of self-esteem often engage in downward social comparisons (Murray et al. , 2018).