What does social comparison involve?

Social comparison is fundamentally about assessing oneself in relation to others. In this context, evaluating one's abilities and opinions against those of others is a key concept. It reflects the process individuals engage in when they look at peers or others in society to gauge where they stand regarding various attributes, such as skills, knowledge, and beliefs. This comparative process can influence self-esteem and self-perception, as individuals may feel better or worse about themselves depending on the outcomes of these comparisons.

The other choices present differing concepts that do not accurately characterize social comparison. Basing self-worth solely on personal achievements suggests a more individualistic approach that ignores the comparative nature inherent to social comparison. Understanding one's strengths without reference to others indicates a focus on self-assessment in isolation, devoid of any social context. Seeking validation through social media interactions relates more to external affirmation rather than the internal process of comparison itself. Thus, the focus on evaluating oneself against others is what distinctly defines social comparison.