Social Comparison

In psychology, the behavior of putting others down to elevate oneself is often referred to as “social comparison” or more specifically “downward social comparison.” It’s a tactic some people use to boost their own self-esteem by diminishing others. By criticizing, belittling, or undermining others, they try to feel superior in comparison.

This behavior is also associated with the concept of “narcissistic supply,” where individuals with narcissistic tendencies derive a sense of validation or worth by putting others down. It can also be part of a defense mechanismknown as “projection,” where someone attributes their own insecurities, weaknesses, or flaws to others to avoid confronting them within themselves.

Personality Traits Behind This Behavior:

Narcissistic Personality Traits:
This is the most common personality type linked to the behavior of putting others down to feel superior. Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and crave admiration. However, beneath this exterior is often a fragile self-esteem. They need to feel special or better than others, and if they don’t receive admiration, they may resort to belittling others as a way to restore their sense of superiority. Characteristics include:
- A lack of empathy for others
- A grandiose sense of self
- Envy of others or belief that others are envious of them
- Frequent need for validation and admiration
Insecure or Low Self-Esteem:
Interestingly, people with low self-esteem can also engage in this behavior as a way to compensate for their deep insecurities. By putting others down, they attempt to distract from their own feelings of inadequacy or failure. This is often seen in environments where competition is high, and rather than building themselves up through personal growth, they tear others down to “level the playing field.”
Passive-Aggressive Personality Traits:
Someone who is passive-aggressive may not overtly attack others but will make underhanded, sarcastic, or dismissive remarks that subtly undermine others. This can be a way to assert dominance in a covert way while avoiding direct confrontation.
Authoritarian Personality:
People with authoritarian tendencies tend to be highly status-conscious, favoring hierarchical structures where they are on top. They may put others down to maintain their perceived social rank or dominance. This personality type often seeks power, control, and respect, but in a rigid, sometimes domineering way.

Why Do People Engage in This Behavior?

Compensating for Insecurity:
At the heart of this behavior is often an underlying feeling of inadequacy or vulnerability. When people feel insecure, one of the quickest ways to momentarily boost their self-esteem is to degrade someone else.
Avoiding Vulnerability:
Admitting one’s own flaws or shortcomings can be uncomfortable. By focusing on others’ faults instead, the person avoids having to address their own internal issues.
Fear of Losing Status:
In competitive environments, some people feel threatened by others’ success or competence. By putting others down, they create the illusion of maintaining or regaining dominance.

Consequences of This Behavior

While the person engaging in this behavior may feel a temporary sense of superiority, the long-term effects are usually damaging to relationships. People around them may:

Lose trust in them
Feel constantly on guard
Experience lower self-esteem from being continuously criticized

Eventually, this type of behavior can isolate the individual as others distance themselves or retaliate. It’s a deeply destructive cycle that ultimately harms both the person engaging in it and those around them.

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