Optimism, pessimism, and the direction of self-other comparisons

Article Abstract:

This article examines self-assessments of college students regarding their future test performance in comparison to the performances of their classmates. Findings indicate that students use unrealistic optimism when predicting their test preparation and performance in comparison to similar others and generally rate themselves as above average.

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The effects of in-group versus out-group social comparison of self-esteem in the context of a negative stereotype

Article Abstract:

This study examines the effects of social comparison on self-esteem. Results indicate that African American students who were outperformed on an intelligence test by an African American confederate experienced enhanced self-esteem due to shared feelings of pride but experienced decreased self esteem when outperformed by White confederates.

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Endorsing a negative in-group stereotype as a self-protective strategy: sacrificing the group to save the self

Article Abstract:

The theory is proposed that negative in-group stereotyping is often used as a means of protection and promotion of self-esteem. It is observed that the very stereotypes that lead people to fail often allow them to be more self-accepting of such failures.

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