Mechanisms of Adolescent Stress in a Meritocratic Culture: Social Comparison and Attribution Bias

Abstract

This study investigates the formation mechanism of competitive psychological stress in adolescents under a meritocratic culture, focusing on the dual influences of social comparison and attribution bias. A review of existing research indicates that horizontal social comparison and attributional biases regarding success and failure significantly intensify psychological stress. Quantifiable indicators such as academic performance and appearance are symbolically elevated in competitive environments, while social media further amplifies exposure to idealized individuals, leading to identity anxiety and self-alienation. Different attribution styles—whether internalizing failure or externalizing responsibility—contribute to stress by undermining self-efficacy or fostering hostility toward external systems. Together, social comparison and attribution bias form a reinforcing mechanism of stress, manifested in cognitive distortions, neural sensitization, and behavioural tendencies such as withdrawal or antagonism. The research findings provide a theoretical basis for formulating mental health intervention measures and cultivating a correct view of competition, which is of practical significance for promoting the comprehensive development of adolescents.