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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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In our daily lives, we often find ourselves comparing our achievements, skills, and attributes to those of others. This natural tendency forms the basis of the social comparison theory, a psychological construct that has a profound impact on our self-perception and behavior.
The social comparison theory, initially proposed by social psychologist Leon Festinger in 1954, suggests that individuals have an inherent drive to evaluate their abilities and beliefs through comparison with others.
Fundamentally, social comparison can be divided into two types: upward social comparisons and downward social comparisons.
Upward social comparisons occur when individuals compare themselves with others who are perceived to be superior or better off in some way. While these comparisons can inspire and motivate, they may also lead to feelings of inadequacy or dissatisfaction with oneself.
Conversely, downward social comparisons involve comparing oneself with others who are deemed inferior or worse off. This type of comparison can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of relief, but it can also lead to complacency or a lack of motivation for self-improvement.
The social comparison process has significant implications, affecting a broad range of areas from mental health to societal dynamics.
Social comparison can play a significant role in mental health. Continuous upward comparisons, especially in the era of social media, can lead to decreased self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. On the other hand, downward comparisons, while temporarily boosting self-esteem, can cultivate negative attitudes and prejudices towards others.
At a societal level, social comparison can contribute to social stratification and competition. It can foster a sense of cohesion and unity within groups, but it can also lead to division and inequality when different groups are compared.
Recognizing and managing the impact of social comparison can contribute to healthier self-perceptions and interactions with others.
Self-awareness and mindfulness can play a crucial role in managing social comparison. By recognizing the instances when social comparison occurs and understanding its impact on one's thoughts and feelings, one can choose more constructive responses.
Cultivating self-compassion is another powerful way to counteract the negative effects of social comparison. By treating oneself with kindness and understanding during periods of perceived inferiority, one can mitigate feelings of inadequacy.
Finally, emphasizing one's unique strengths and characteristics can help reduce the tendency to compare. By celebrating individuality and recognizing that each person's path is different, one can shift focus from comparison to personal growth.
While social comparison is a natural and integral part of human psychology, understanding its mechanics and implications can help individuals navigate it more healthily, promoting self-esteem and positive social dynamics.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.
You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.
Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.
We offer online group therapy, & each group has a personalized program of guidance, support, skills, and advice developed by our therapists.
Space is limited, so reserve your seat today.
