Volume 3,Issue 8
Application of Social Comparison Theory in the Family Environment
Taking the social comparison theory as its framework, this paper identifies a lack of sufficient research applying this theory to family studies and explores its application through empirical evidence and cases. First, it elaborates on the theory’s comparison types, motivations, and impacts. Then, it analyzes the specific application of the theory in three types of family relationships—parent-child, spousal, and sibling relationships—and the effects of different comparison methods. Next, it identifies the limitations of applying this theory in families, such as the tendency to trigger irrational cognition. Subsequently, it proposes optimization strategies, including guiding a rational comparison mindset. Finally, the article summarizes the dual impacts of the theory on families, emphasizes the significance of its rational application, and specifies directions for future research. This study aims to address the existing gap in research on the application of social comparison theory within family contexts and to provide evidence-based recommendations for promoting harmonious family interactions.
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