ISMT Lecturer analyses the impact of social comparisons in Observador article

2026-01-09

Lecturer Ana Galhardo contributes to an analysis of the psychological mechanisms of comparison and their influence on well-being.

ISMT lecturer Ana Galhardo recently collaborated with the Observador newspaper on an article exploring the nature of social comparisons. The journalistic piece addresses the reasons why individuals tend to measure their success and happiness in relation to others, a behaviour intrinsic to the human experience that has acquired new dimensions in today's digital context.

During her intervention, the lecturer analysed the distinction between upward and downward comparisons. The focus of the discussion centred on how these dynamics can serve as a driver for motivation or, conversely, become sources of anxiety and dissatisfaction, depending on how the information is processed by the individual.

This collaboration reinforces the commitment of the ISMT teaching staff to transferring scientific knowledge to civil society. By sharing specialised perspectives in leading media outlets, the institution contributes to public enlightenment on core themes of psychology and human behaviour.

Read the full interview here: https://observador.pt/especiais/porque-e-que-nos-comparamos-tanto-com-os-outros-e-ha-comparacoes-boas-e-comparacoes-mas/