Which of the following is a common application of social comparison theory?

Social comparison theory posits that individuals evaluate their own opinions, abilities, and characteristics by comparing themselves to others. A common application of this theory is evaluating one's performance against others. This process allows individuals to assess where they stand in relation to peers, which can influence self-esteem, motivation, and behavior.

When people compare their performance to that of others, they might gain insights into their own abilities and determine areas for improvement, or they may find validation for their achievements. This kind of evaluation can occur in various contexts such as academics, sports, or even social settings, where people naturally seek feedback and social cues from their environment.

In contrast, ignoring differences among individuals does not align with the essence of social comparison theory, since the theory is based on recognizing and responding to those differences. Promoting isolation and encouraging competitive behavior exclusive to certain contexts don’t capture the broader applicability of social comparison, which often serves to connect individuals with their social peers and foster a sense of belonging through shared experiences.