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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
08:24
The Joint Effect of Social Comparison and Social Distance on Evaluation of Intertemporal Choice Outcomes in Event-related Potential Studies
Published on: August 25, 2023
The local dominance effect in self-evaluation: evidence and explanations
1Department of Psychology, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA. ez654504@ohio.edu
Summary
Social comparisons often focus on a few individuals, influencing self-perception more than group data. This review explores the local dominance effect, its causes, and implications.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Self-Perception Research
Background:
- The local dominance effect describes how comparisons with few individuals disproportionately impact self-assessments.
- Understanding this effect is crucial for comprehending social comparison processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies demonstrating the local dominance effect.
- To explore explanations and moderators of this psychological phenomenon.
- To discuss theoretical and practical implications for future research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of empirical studies on the local dominance effect.
- Analysis of proposed theoretical explanations.
- Examination of moderating factors such as proximity and self-enhancement.
Main Results:
- Consistent evidence supports the local dominance effect across various studies.
- Social categorization and the abstract/concrete nature of comparisons are key explanatory factors.
- Physical proximity and self-enhancement significantly moderate the effect.
Conclusions:
- The local dominance effect is a robust finding in social psychology.
- Further research should explore its nuances and applications in different contexts.
- Understanding local dominance aids in refining theories of social comparison and self-evaluation.
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