[Children] receive direct instruction from time to time about the appropriateness of various social comparisons

Ironically, it is the talented who have high aspirations, which are possible but exceedingly difficult to realize, who are especially vulnerable to self-dissatisfaction despite notable achievements.

Because of such conjointedness, behavior that exerts no effect whatsoever on outcomes is developed and consistently performed

People not only gain understanding through reflection, they evaluate and alter their own thinking.

Self-percepts foster actions that generate information, as well as serve as a filtering mechanism for self-referent information in the self-maintaining process

The evaluative habits developed in sibling interactions undoubtedly affect the salience and choice of comparative referents in self-ability evaluations in later life

People who believe they have the power to exercise some measure of control over their lives are healthier, more effective and more successful than those who lack faith in their ability to effect changes in their lives.