The Perils of Comparison Culture: Why It’s Harmful to Compare Students Based on Academic Strength
Sharmaji ka beta is an oft quoted trope in today’s world. The inherent desire to see one’s child do better than the neighbour’s kids, seems to be all prevalent in the Indian society. Whether it’s comparing grades, marks, or overall academic performance, students in India often find themselves in a race where they are constantly measuring their worth against others. Parents seem to find pride in the fact that their child is academically superior to others in their family and social circles. For the parents of those poor kids, who do not manage to live up to parental expectation, their child’s “poor performance” is seen a slight upon their own success as a parent. This culture, deeply ingrained in the educational system, presents several dangers that can severely affect mental health, self-esteem, and long-term growth. As students gear up for competitive exams, it’s important to understand why it is harmful to compare academic strength with peers and why embracing individuality and personal growth is far more beneficial.
The Rise of Comparison Culture in India
In India, education is highly competitive. Every year, lakhs of students prepare for exams such as the JEE (Joint Entrance Examination), NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), and others, with the aim of securing spots in prestigious institutions. While these exams do influence the career path of students, they are often perceived as a mark of success in society. With academic achievements being equated with one’s worth, students are often pitted against each other in a constant comparison of grades, test scores, and achievements. Parents, teachers, and even peers often inadvertently fuel this culture of comparison.
I am the first person to admit that healthy competition is a good thing. When done in the right way, it can encourage self-improvement. However, in a vast number of cases, things tend to go overboard. This leads to detrimental effects. Unhealthy comparison happens when students are expected to meet external standards of success, which are not in alignment with their true individual interests, aptitude and personality.
Damaging Effects on Mental Health
The media has often highlighted the stark consequences of pushing students beyond their limits. Reports about students taking extreme steps when unable to cope up with pressure are, sadly, not too uncommon.
Students who constantly measure their success against that of their peers often experience stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. This is particularly prevalent in competitive exam preparation, where students feel pressure to perform at the highest level. The fear of falling short compared to classmates can lead to a sense of failure. Students might develop anxiety disorders, depression, and, in extreme cases, suicidal tendencies. According to studies, students who perceive themselves as constantly underperforming in comparison to others are more likely to experience these mental health issues.
Loss of Self-Esteem and Self-Worth
When students compare themselves to others, they often begin to define their self-worth solely based on their academic performance. A student who performs well in a subject may feel good about themselves, but a student who struggles may feel worthless or incapable. This is particularly dangerous because academic performance is just one aspect of a person’s potential. Students who do not excel in academics might be talented in other areas, such as sports, arts, leadership, or creativity. However, the overwhelming focus on academic strength in comparison culture often causes students to overlook these other important facets of their personality, leading them to doubt their abilities and potential.
Ignoring Individuality and Personal Growth
A rabbit, fish, eagle and a monkey cannot be judged through a single test, where every competitor has to climb a tree. Every student has their own strengths, weaknesses, learning styles, and pace of development. When students compare themselves to others, they forget that everyone has a different path to success. Some students may require more time to grasp certain concepts, while others might learn more quickly. The traditional academic system, however, often assumes that all students must learn and perform at the same rate.
This leads to frustration and demotivation, as students fail to understand that personal growth is a gradual process. Instead of focusing on their own progress, they constantly worry about how their achievements measure up to their peers’. As a result, students may adopt unhealthy study habits, sacrifice their well-being, and ignore their own development in pursuit of a standard that may not even align with their true passions or goals.
A Narrow Definition of Success
Comparison culture often presents a narrow definition of success — one that is based solely on academic achievements. Success is frequently measured by exam scores, grades, and the number of prestigious institutions one gains admission to. However, true success is multifaceted. It includes personal happiness, resilience, creativity, the ability to contribute to society, and the pursuit of passions and interests.
By constantly comparing themselves to others based on exam results, students may lose sight of what makes them truly unique. Instead of embracing their strengths and working towards personal goals, they become fixated on achieving a uniform standard that society has set. As a result, students might become less interested in developing other skills and qualities that contribute to a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
Fostering Unhealthy Competition
Comparison culture can also foster unhealthy competition among peers. When students are pitted against each other based on their academic achievements, it can create an environment of jealousy, resentment, and rivalry. Rather than supporting each other, students may see their classmates as competitors rather than collaborators. This undermines the spirit of teamwork and mutual support that is essential for personal and collective growth.
Moreover, unhealthy competition may discourage collaboration and sharing of ideas. Students who constantly compare themselves to others may hesitate to ask questions or seek help for fear of being perceived as weak or incompetent. This not only hampers learning but also creates a toxic academic environment where students are more focused on outperforming each other than on learning for the sake of knowledge and personal development.
Emphasizing Growth Over Comparison
Instead of indulging in comparisons, students should focus on their own growth. Personal development is not about matching the achievements of others but about improving oneself over time. The key is to focus on one’s own strengths, interests, and pace of learning.
To foster this growth mindset, students should set personal goals that align with their own aspirations. Whether it’s improving in a particular subject, mastering a new skill, or simply becoming more confident in their abilities, these individual goals can provide a sense of direction and accomplishment. Students should celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and embrace the process of learning as a lifelong journey.
In conclusion, the culture of comparison in India, particularly among students preparing for competitive exams, is harmful to mental health, self-esteem, and personal growth. The obsession with academic performance often leads to anxiety, depression, and a narrow view of success. It prevents students from embracing their individuality and exploring their unique strengths. Rather than comparing themselves to others, students should focus on their own growth, celebrate their achievements, and understand that success is not defined by a singular academic standard. By doing so, students can cultivate a sense of fulfilment, happiness, and resilience that will serve them well beyond the classroom and into their future careers.