Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 30, 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
1.4K
[The effect of attainability on envy].
Summary
Less envy is felt when a desired goal is attainable. Studies show that perceived attainability, not just comparison, influences envy levels and helping behavior.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
Context:
- Envy arises from social comparison when an individual desires what another possesses.
- Understanding envy's triggers is crucial for social interaction dynamics.
Purpose:
- To investigate the role of goal attainability in modulating envy.
- To test if perceived attainability influences envy and subsequent helping behavior.
Summary:
- Two studies examined envy by manipulating goal attainability.
- Participants experienced less envy when the envied goal was perceived as attainable through effort or skill improvement.
- Helping behavior did not significantly differ based on attainability.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that the perceived possibility of achieving a desired outcome can mitigate feelings of envy.
- Highlights the importance of attainability in the experience of social comparison emotions.
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