Social media provides a steady stream of upward comparisons, but whether these encounters inspire or discourage depends on how similarity is perceived. When similarity is judged narrowly - using superficial characteristics like appearance or possessions - users contrast from upward targets, leading to discouragement or envy. When similarity is construed more broadly - highlighting persistence, growth, or creativity - users assimilate toward upward targets, finding inspiration and motivation. Reframing similarity in this way has the potential to shift social media from a source of alienation toward one of connection and growth.


This study tests two gamified procedural priming modules designed to activate analogical transfer and raise the level of abstraction at which similarities are identified. Drawing on structure-mapping theory, the Matching module adapts a scene comparison task to transfer base-target trait similarity, while the Pursuit module adapts a maze task to transfer base-target approach. Both modules embed structural correspondences that automatically and unconsciously broaden the similarity lens without requiring deliberate training. Undergraduate participants (N = 1,500) will be randomly assigned to Matching, Pursuit, or control conditions. They will complete a buffer task to verify automaticity of transfer, a timed relational-matching paradigm to assess analogical processing, and ten upward comparison vignettes capturing cognitive, affective, behavioral, and quantitative identification responses.


Effectiveness will be evaluated through faster and more accurate relational matching and greater frequency of assimilative comparisons relative to the control. If successful, the interventions provide a scalable means of constructively reorienting digital engagement by targeting the comparison mechanism itself rather than limiting exposure, moderating content, or relying on deliberate reframing. This approach offers transferable tools to reshape online comparison processes to foster resilience, motivation, and growth.