* Peers: This is a significant source, especially as children age. They compare their abilities, possessions, and social status to those of their classmates and friends.
* Siblings: Sibling rivalry often fuels social comparison, with children evaluating themselves relative to their brothers' and sisters' achievements and characteristics.
* Parents: Children often compare themselves to their parents' expectations and accomplishments, implicitly or explicitly. This can be a source of both motivation and anxiety.
* Media figures: The influence of media, including television, movies, and social media, is substantial. Children compare themselves to idealized images of beauty, success, and popularity portrayed by celebrities and influencers.
* Other significant adults: Teachers, coaches, and other adults in their lives also serve as benchmarks for comparison.
It's important to note that the *importance* of each source varies depending on the child's age, developmental stage, and social environment. For younger children, parents and siblings might be more dominant, while older children place more emphasis on peer comparisons and media influences.