Theory of relative deprivation and reactions to disabilities: Role of intrapersonal comparisons in the management of self-esteem

Relative deprivation (RD) theory usually distinguishes between interpersonal and intergroup comparisons, but neglects intrapersonal comparisons. This research reveals that the comparisons between the actual and the future selves lead to relative gratification (RG) feelings which in turn are related to self-esteem. A first study (N = 581) confirms that intrapersonal RG positively contributes to self-esteem. A second study, involving students with a disability (n = 31) and without (n = 50), reveals that if disabled students exhibit a higher level of self-esteem than nondisabled ones, this preservation is only explained by intrapersonal RG. Finally, intergroup RD and intrapersonal RG are two distinct predictors of militancy in favour of disabled people. These results testify to the importance of differentiating comparison levels.