Final answer:
Social comparison theory posits that we perform upward social comparisons to aspire towards greater success or skill, using others as benchmarks, while downward comparisons are made to boost self-esteem, comparing ourselves with those who are worse off.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to social comparison theory, we are most likely to engage in an upward social comparison when we aspire to improve ourselves or our status by looking at people or groups who are performing better than us, such as those who have achieved higher levels of success, status, or skill. This can serve as inspiration or a benchmark for our own goals. On the other hand, a downward social comparison occurs when we compare ourselves with those who are worse off or performing at a lower level than us, often in order to boost our self-esteem or feel better about our own situation.
These comparisons are part of how we determine our social standing and can impact our emotions and behaviors. Factors such as personal aspirations, current status, the need for self-improvement or affirmation, and the surrounding social environment will influence the direction of comparison.