Use of English - Multiple Choice

Measuring Ourselves Against Others

The psychological effects of social comparison have long been a subject of research, yet the issue has become more pressing in an age of constant online exposure. People rarely compare themselves with others in a neutral way; instead, they tend to focus (0) HEAVILY on those who seem more successful, attractive or fulfilled. Such upward comparison can sometimes serve as a source of motivation, but it can also (1) .......... feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This is especially true when individuals are already vulnerable to anxiety or low self-esteem. What makes social comparison so powerful is that it often happens almost (2) .........., without conscious reflection. A brief glance at someone else’s achievements may be enough to (3) .......... a chain of negative thoughts. Over time, this can affect not only mood but also behaviour, leading people to withdraw from situations in which they fear they will be judged. In extreme cases, they may even base their self-worth (4) .......... unrealistic standards that are impossible to meet. Experts therefore argue that it is essential to develop habits that protect mental well-being. One useful strategy is to focus less on ranking oneself against others and more on personal progress. Another is to bear (5) .......... that what people present publicly is often selective. A healthier perspective can also be achieved by learning to call negative assumptions (6) .......... question rather than accepting them as fact. In the long (7) .........., this may reduce emotional distress and help people build a more stable sense of identity, one that is less (8) .......... on external approval.