Briefly describe Festinger's (1954) social comparison theory
What will be an ideal response?
Answer:
In many instances, there are no objective indicators of the accuracy of our beliefs and attitudes. In this situation, we seek confirmation of our beliefs by comparing our beliefs and attitudes with those of other people. Confirmation provides consensual validation – giving us a sense that our judgments are sound and that we are normal. This, in turn, produces a positive affective state. Negative affective states arise when there is a lack of consensual validation because of dissimilarity in beliefs and attitudes.
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Four months ago, Gary was in an automobile accident where he sustained a head injury, and he and his wife both agree that his cognitive abilities are not what they were prior to the accident. Which of the following tests (or batteries of tests) is most likely to be administered to Gary when he meets with the neuropsychologist next week?
a. the Luria-Nebraska b. the MMPI c. the NEO-PI d. the Army Beta
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