Web Exercise #1: Upward and Downward Social Comparisons

Chapter 3 discusses how people can learn about themselves, motivate themselves, and feel better (or worse) about themselves based on their “upward” and “downward” comparisons. Conduct a scavenger hunt to look for popular media portrayals (e.g., movies, TV shows, memes, etc.) that portray the benefits and dangers of upward and downward comparisons. Create a padlet to share what you have found.

Web Exercise #2: Implicit Attitude Test

Chapter 3 reviews implicit, indirect measures of self-esteem including the Implicit Attitude Test (IAT). The IAT assumes that the stronger the association between two concepts in the mind, like “me” and “good,” the more quickly a person responds in reaction time. See for yourself how the IAT measures a variety of attitudes by visiting the following address:

Project Implicit

Select “Project Implicit Mental Health” to access the self-esteem IAT.

• What are your thoughts on the measurement of implicit attitudes?
• Is reaction time a good measurement of self-esteem?
• What are the strengths and potential limitations of the IAT?