This research tested whether the effects of physical activity (PA) comparisons depend on the perceived similarity to comparison standards. In 3 experimental studies, participants compared themselves to a more or a less physically active person. Results showed that perceived similarity determined comparison outcomes: Participants' PA self-evaluation and self-efficacy were higher when focusing on similarities with more (vs less) (Study 1) and dissimilarities with less (vs more) active others (Study 1 and 2). Considering the opposite of the impression that less active others are similar and more active others are dissimilar increased participants' PA self-evaluation, self-efficacy, and intention (Study 3).
Keywords: exercise; physical activity; self-efficacy; self-evaluation; social comparison.