| Individuals can make social comparisons easily, quickly, and frequently on commonly used
social networking sites such as Facebook. Prior research has shown that upward and downward
social comparisons to romantic relationships on social media can affect relationship satisfaction
and well-being of individuals in romantic relationships. The present study extended past research
by examining the effects of romantic relationship social comparisons on single individuals. 177
participants were randomized into either an upward or downward social comparison group, then
completed social comparison, well-being, social media use, and satisfaction with relationship
status measures. Those in the downward condition exhibited significantly higher social
comparison scores than those in the upward condition, however, no other significant differences
emerged between groups. Our results indicate that while singles’ social comparison can be
manipulated effectively, they may be too different from those in relationships to replicate effects
on well-being and satisfaction with relationship status. |