The role of social comparison and type of feedback on self-criticism in people with high levels of depressive symptoms

Abstract

This research explores the relation between social comparison and self-criticism on a group of participants with elevated rates of depressive symptoms. In addition, the study investigated whether the type of feedback could moderate the relation between social comparison and self-criticism. The sample included 36 psychology students in the first year (N = 28 women, M age = 24.6, SD = 4.66) with high depressive symptoms. Results show that higher rates of negative social comparison are correlated with higher levels of self-criticism. Participants that received negative feedback reported an increase level of self-criticism compared to those from positive feedback condition. The type of feedback moderated the relation between social comparison and self-criticism. Our findings are discussed from the perspective of their practical implications for young adults experiencing high levels of depressive symptoms.