Exploring The Interplay of Digital Self-Comparison, Fear of Failure, and Self-Sabotaging Behavior in Young Adults

Abstract

In an age dominated by curated digital personas and online validation, young adults are increasingly vulnerable to the psychological fallout of constant comparison. This study explores the complex interplay between digital social comparison DIGITAL SOCIAL COMPARISON (DSC), fear of failure FEAR OF FAILURE (FOF), and self-sabotaging behavior SELF-SABOTAGING BEHAVIOR (SSB) among individuals aged 18 to 30. Drawing upon a cross-sectional, correlational research design, the study investigates whether exposure to idealized portrayals of success on social media platforms contributes to maladaptive cognitive patterns and behaviors. Specifically, it examines whether FOF, mediates the relationship between DSC and SSB. A sample of 200 participants was randomly selected from academic institutions, workplaces, and online communities. Standardized psychological tools were employed: The Social Media Social Comparison of Ability and Opinion Scale (Yang & Robinson, 2018), the Performance Failure Appraisal Inventory–Short Form (Conroy et al., 2003), and the Self-Handicapping Scale (Ho, 2018). Data collection was conducted through both online and offline modes, adhering strictly to ethical guidelines including informed consent and participant confidentiality. The study hypothesizes significant positive correlations among DSC, FOF, and SSB, and with additional predictions regarding gender differences and predictive roles of FOF and on SSB and on. Data analysis will involve Pearson’s correlation, multiple regression, and independent samples t-tests using SPSS software. The results showed that the digital self-comparison strongly links to self-sabotage, while fear of failure shows a weaker connection, with no major gender differences, though women tend to exhibit slightly higher fear of failure. Further the findings aim to improve existing psychological literature by identifying digital-age risk factors and psychological mechanisms that promote self-sabotage. These insights are expected to inform the development of targeted interventions that foster resilience, adaptive coping strategies, and healthier online engagement among young adults.