A Study on Upward Social Comparison, Distress Tolerance and Authenticity among Young Social Media Users

Abstract

Over the past decade, social media has become a central part of young people’s

lives, and its usage has drastically increased. Sharing their life’s highlights, following trendy

culture and building global connections have become an essential part of their daily routine.

However, constant exposure of filtered posts, trendy reels and unrealistic beauty standards may

cause upward social comparison which can pull focus away from personal values and losing real

self in the virtual world. Young adults may struggle to handle negative emotions due to

conditioning of expecting perfection online causing distress intolerance. The study was conducted

to check the correlation between upward social comparison, distress tolerance and authentic self

among young social media users. Standardized scales were used to measure upward social

comparison, distress tolerance and authentic self among young social media users. The study

included a total of 30 samples of young social media users. The results found out that there is a

significant positive correlation between upward social comparison and distress tolerance which

states that watching skilled peers or successful people can create positive envy and encourages

young adults to work harder to match their high standard. On the other hand, there is no significant

correlation between upward social comparison and authenticity. More systematic studies along

with large sample sizes are suggested to expand further study. Moreover, digital literacy, conscious

use, limited social media usage and  gratitude practice are suggested in order to minimize the

negative effect of social media usage.