Exploring the role of Social Comparison in the Relationship Between Visual Impairmentrelated Stress and Self-esteem Among Israelis with Visual Impairments.

Stress is negatively linked to health and well-being. Social comparison can serve as a coping mechanism with stress. This study explored whether social comparison mediates the relationship between visual impairment (VI)-related stress and self-esteem. A convenience sample of 100 individuals with VI completed self-reported questionnaires. We found that social comparison generated negative affect and partially mediated the relationship between VI-related stress and self-esteem. The findings imply that assessing social comparison among people who report VI-related stress should be incorporated into the rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation staff members need to work individually with people who report VI-related stress and employ interventions to limit the potential negative effects of social comparison on self-esteem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]