Bouncing Back

Danielle Arigo: Social Comparison as an Intervention for Behavior Change | Bouncing Back #11

Are you tired of constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you’re falling short? You’re not alone! Break the habit of comparing yourself to others. This episode with Dr. Danielle Arigo will guide you!

Meet Dr. Danielle Arigo

Dr. Danielle Arigo is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Rowan University in New Jersey (USA). She also holds appointments at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University and Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine, and she is also a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in health psychology and behavioral medicine, including understanding connections between mental and physical health and using the science of behavior change to support healthy behaviors such as physical activity, weight control, and chronic illness self-management. 

Furthermore, Dr. Arigo’s research has a particular emphasis on social comparison or self-evaluations relative to other people. She and her team focus on understanding the effects of comparisons and how they can best be used to promote healthy behavior.

About the episode

In this episode hosted by Tia Harmer, Dr. Arigo explained what social comparison was. She said that it is the process of evaluating oneself in relation to other people. It involves noticing similarities and differences between oneself and others and can lead to various emotional reactions. 

Moreover, according to Dr. Arigo, social comparisons can be conscious or unconscious, and the ones that elicit emotions are typically the ones you are more aware of. This evaluation can be both positive and negative, depending on the context and individual factors.

From a positive perspective, social comparison can be a source of inspiration and motivation. On the other hand, social comparison can have negative effects, particularly when it leads to feelings of inferiority, anxiety, or self-doubt. Comparing oneself to others who seem more successful or accomplished can evoke negative emotions and lower self-esteem.

In conclusion

Social comparison is a complex phenomenon, and its effects can vary from person to person. The outcomes are not solely determined by the act of comparison itself but also by how individuals interpret and respond to the information they receive. So for you to be able to handle it positively, it is important to understand yourself, recognize what is truly important, and make decisions aligned with your personal values and goals.

Be the first to see our next episode. Follow us on social media to stay updated: 

YouTube

Facebook    

Instagram

Twitter

You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms:

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Amazon

iHeart Radio    

Podbean

PlayerFM

Podchaser

Google Podcasts

Zoe Francisco

Recent Posts

Curiosity and Anxiety: How Curiosity Can Ease the Anxious Mind

You know how it feels to be anxious. Scattered thoughts, racing heartbeat, and whispers of…

1 day ago

Are You Addicted to Stress? Stress Addiction and How to Overcome It

Stress has become an integral part of everyday life. Some even consider it a motivator,…

2 days ago

How to Stop Workplace Stress Before You Burnout

You're tired, but still push harder. You're irritated, but blame it on a bad day.…

3 days ago

The Power of Responsibility for Consistent Productivity

Many professionals struggle to maintain consistent productivity, experiencing extreme productivity on some days and feeling…

4 days ago

Maximizing Small Garden Spaces for Summer Activities

Having a small garden can feel limiting, especially as summer approaches and you want to…

1 week ago

From Garden to Ground: How Household Choices Affect Soil Health

The soil in your home garden needs help. You might not know this, but it's…

1 week ago