Self‐Perceptions, Normative Beliefs, and Substance Use Associated With High School Girls Comparing Themselves to Peers

Abstract

BACKGROUND We assessed whether self‐descriptions, self‐perceptions, perceived substance use of friends, and actual substance use were associated with high school girls' frequency of making social comparisons to peers. METHODS We analyzed data from the Adolescent Health Risk Behavior Survey data for 357 high school girls using multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS Compared to those who “never/rarely” made social comparisons, participants who self‐described as fearing something constantly (p = .014) and forced to imitate the people they like (p = .009) were more likely to “usually” compare themselves to peers. Participants who described themselves as feeling forced to imitate the people they like (p = .022), were not the person they would like to be (p = .005), and did not remain calm under pressure (p = .010), were more likely to “often/always” make social comparisons. Participants who perceived themselves as unattractive (p = .034) and self‐centered (p = .016) were more likely to “often/always” make social comparisons. Participants who perceived a larger proportion of friends use illicit drugs were less likely to “usually” make social comparisons (p = .027). Participants who perceived a larger proportion of friends drink alcohol were more likely to “often/always” make social comparisons (p = .018). CONCLUSIONS Girls who perceive and describe themselves more negatively are at increased odds of making social comparisons to peers.

The impact of the music curriculum in China on identity development in adolescence aged between 13 and 17

“…To some extent, a sense of self-identity is developed (Chua & Chang, 2016). However, it cannot be ruled out that some adolescents have a tendency to have low self-esteem, believing that they are not 'on par' with their peers (Merianos et al, 2021). In addition, the pressure caused by teachers and parents for high school entrance exams can bring about oppressive education and lead to the unhealthy psychological development of adolescents in that age group (Dong, 2019).…”