When social comparison works as a demotivator: Stronger peers mitigate effort levels.

Abstract

The present study tested the effect of social comparison on effort-related cardiovascular responses. Specifically, we investigated how effort levels are influenced when individuals compare themselves to significantly better peers versus similar or slightly better peers. 43 participants played five-minute video games while displaying the scores of peers who were similar, slightly better, or significantly better, in addition to a control condition without peer scores. Effort-related cardiovascular responses were measured using the pre-ejection period during both game and baseline conditions. Results revealed that the pre-ejection period was stronger when participants competed with peers who were similar or slightly better compared to those who were significantly better or in the control condition. These findings highlight the role of social comparison in modulating effort-related cardiovascular responses, emphasizing the moderating role of the ability gap between the individual and the comparison source on the effect of social comparison on effort.