title: Social comparisons in novel situations: finding inspiration during life transitions.
abstract: The authors propose that individuals transitioning to a novel environment will prefer upward comparisons, particularly those made with individuals who have experienced a similar transition. Such comparisons help to reduce uncertainty and demonstrate that future success is possible. Study 1 found that individuals facing transitions to unfamiliar situations seek upward comparisons as a result of their uncertainty. Study 2 demonstrated that individuals who perceive themselves to be making a significant life transition are especially motivated by upward comparisons. Study 3 provided evidence that upward comparisons are especially inspiring to individuals making a transition to a novel cultural environment. Study 4 provided experimental evidence that individuals in a novel cultural environment are particularly inspired by upward comparisons with other newcomers. These studies suggest that upward comparisons with individuals who have experienced a similar transition enhance individuals' sense of control over future outcomes and play a key role during adjustment to novel environments.
authors: Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. lockwood@psych.utoronto.ca
authors: Penelope
authors: P
authors: Lockwood
authors: Sarah C
authors: SC
authors: Shaughnessy
authors: Jennifer L
authors: JL
authors: Fortune
authors: Man-On
authors: MO
authors: Tong
mesh_terms: D000124:Achievement; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D002170:Canada; D003431:Cross-Cultural Comparison; D054242:Emigrants and Immigrants / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012649:Self Concept; D012917:Social Adjustment; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult