Do You Dare to Compare?: The Key Characteristics of Social Media Users Who Frequently Make Online Upward Social Comparisons

Abstract

ABSTRACT Social media platforms and social networking sites are heavily focused on self-presentation and impression management. The present study aimed to identify salient social media behaviors and psychosocial factors most associated with high levels of upward online social comparisons. An online survey was administered through Amazon’s Mechanical Turk to assess demographics, psychosocial factors, and social media behaviors, including tendencies to make upward social comparisons online. Results revealed key factors related to high upward social comparisons: those with low quality of life, low perceived social support, high in fear of missing out, high levels of social media addiction, frequent censorship to avoid judgment, and feelings of safety while using social media. The overall findings of this study suggest an association between negative well-being and making online upward social comparisons.