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Self-Oriented Comparison Scale for Appearance (SOCS-A): Development and psychometric evaluation
Tracy L Tylka1, Nichole L Wood-Barcalow2
1Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
Body Image
|August 3, 2026
Summary
A new scale, the Self-Oriented Comparison Scale for Appearance (SOCS-A), effectively measures upward and downward appearance comparisons to one's past self. This tool shows strong psychometric properties and can predict body shame and disordered eating.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Body Image Research
- Eating Disorder Research
Background:
- Social comparison of appearance is linked to negative body image and disordered eating.
- Self-oriented appearance comparison (comparing to one's past self) may also impact body image and eating behaviors.
- Existing measures lack a multi-item assessment for self-oriented comparison directions across appearance changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate the Self-Oriented Comparison Scale for Appearance (SOCS-A).
- To assess the psychometric properties of the SOCS-A in a diverse adult population.
- To examine the relationship between self-oriented appearance comparison, body image, and disordered eating.
Main Methods:
- Two online studies were conducted with U.S. community adults (N=973 and N=885).
- The Self-Oriented Comparison Scale for Appearance (SOCS-A), an 11-item measure, was developed.
- Psychometric properties including factor structure, reliability, and validity were investigated.
Main Results:
- A two-factor structure (upward and downward comparison) was supported in both studies.
- The SOCS-A demonstrated strong reliability (composite, test-retest) and validity (convergent, discriminant, incremental).
- Upward self-oriented comparison correlated with negative outcomes (e.g., disordered eating, body shame), while downward comparison was neutral or positive.
Conclusions:
- The 11-item SOCS-A is a psychometrically sound measure for assessing self-oriented appearance comparison in U.S. adults.
- Upward self-oriented appearance comparison uniquely predicts body shame and disordered eating.
- Further research is recommended to explore the SOCS-A in diverse populations and longitudinal studies.
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