With a group of classmates, compile a list of reference groups you use to define your self-concepts. You can recognize them by answering several questions:

a. Select one area in which you compare yourselves to others. In what area is the comparison made? (For example, is the comparison based on wealth, intelligence, or social skill?)

b. In the selected area, ask yourselves, “Which people am I better or worse than?”

c. In the selected area, ask yourselves, “Which people am I the same as or different from?”

What is the effect of using these groups as a basis for judging yourselves? How might you view yourselves differently if you used other reference groups as a basis for comparison?