In the age of social media, it’s no surprise that we’ve found new ways to categorize ourselves and others. One trend currently making waves on TikTok is the comparison between “Type A” friends and “Type B” friends. These personality types, long used in psychology, are now being reinterpreted through the lens of social interactions, sparking discussions on how these traits affect relationships and mental health.
But beneath the humorous comparisons and light-hearted TikTok videos lies a deeper mental health issue—comparison culture. Constantly measuring ourselves against others can create a range of mental health challenges, from anxiety to low self-esteem. In this blog, we’ll explore what the Type A vs. Type B trend is, how it reflects our need to compare, and how this can negatively impact our mental well-being.
What Are Type A and Type B Personalities?
First, let’s break down the basics. In psychology, the Type A and Type B personality theory was developed in the 1950s by cardiologists Meyer Friedman and Ray Rosenman. The idea was that people generally fall into one of two personality categories:
- Type A individuals are described as organized, competitive, highly driven, and often stressed due to their ambition.
- Type B individuals are seen as more relaxed, laid-back, and less likely to feel pressured by time or competition.
While this classification is an oversimplification, most of us possess traits of both types, the trend of comparing “Type A” and “Type B” friends on TikTok has brought these labels into a new spotlight.
The Trend on TikTok: Type A vs. Type B Friends
On TikTok, users are playfully categorizing their friends (or themselves) into these two camps. Type A friends are depicted as the planners, those who always have a schedule, set goals, and like things to be perfect. Meanwhile, Type B friends are seen as the spontaneous, go-with-the-flow types who are less concerned with the details and more about the experience.
While these videos are often humorous—showing the chaos that can ensue when these two personality types try to plan a trip or work on a project together—they also reveal a common behavior: comparison.
The Dark Side of Comparison Culture
Social media often amplifies our natural inclination to compare ourselves to others. TikTok trends like Type A vs. Type B, while entertaining, may trigger a deeper issue of self-criticism. Here’s how this can happen:
- Perfectionism and Pressure on Type A Individuals
People who identify as Type A may feel pressure to live up to the label, constantly striving for perfection. When they see themselves falling short, the comparison can result in feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and burnout. The constant push to be “on top of things” can make it hard to relax, leading to mental exhaustion.
- Feeling Inferior as a Type B Individual
Conversely, Type B individuals may feel inadequate when comparing themselves to their more structured friends. They might internalize societal pressure to be more productive or goal-oriented and feel guilt or shame when they can’t measure up. This can lead to low self-esteem, self-doubt, and even depression.
- The Trap of the “Highlight Reel”
Social media, including TikTok, often showcases the highlights of people’s lives—their best moments, their achievements, and their carefully curated content. When comparing ourselves to others, we often forget that we’re only seeing a small, edited portion of their lives. This can create unrealistic expectations and a distorted sense of reality, exacerbating mental health issues like anxiety and stress.
- Comparison Fuels Negative Self-Talk
Whether you’re Type A or Type B, constantly comparing yourself to others can lead to harmful internal dialogue. This negative self-talk might include thoughts like “I’m not good enough,” “I should be more like them,” or “I’m a failure.” Over time, this can erode self-confidence and contribute to a cycle of low self-worth.
How Comparison Affects Mental Health
Comparison can take a significant toll on mental health. Studies show that people who frequently compare themselves to others are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and negative body image. Here are a few key ways in which this manifests:
- Increased Anxiety and Stress: Comparing yourself to others, especially on social media, can increase stress and anxiety. Whether you’re striving to be more like your Type A friend or feeling inadequate next to your Type B friend’s carefree attitude, the pressure to conform can be overwhelming.
- Jealousy and Resentment: Constant comparison can lead to a mindset of envying others’ success or lifestyle. This can breed negative emotions like jealousy and resentment, harming relationships and mental peace.
- Distraction from Personal Goals: Focusing too much on what others are achieving can distract you from your own goals and hinder personal growth.
- Negative Body Image: Comparing physical appearances to your Type A or B friend, especially on social media, can lead to unhealthy perceptions of body image and self-criticism.
Breaking Free from Comparison
So, how can we enjoy trends like Type A vs. Type B without falling into the trap of comparison?
- Embrace Your Uniqueness
Whether you’re more Type A, Type B, or a mix of both, it’s important to embrace your unique personality. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success or happiness. Learning to appreciate your strengths and accepting your limitations can reduce the desire to compare.
- Focus on Personal Growth
Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own personal growth. Ask yourself, “What can I do today to improve myself?” Setting goals based on your values and needs rather than societal expectations can foster self-confidence.
- Limit Social Media Exposure
Reducing time spent on social media platforms like TikTok can help lessen the urge to compare. Try practicing a digital detox or limiting your scrolling time to decrease exposure to the constant highlight reels of others’ lives.
- Practice Self-Compassion
Remember that no one is perfect. Practicing self-compassion means being kind to yourself when you make mistakes or fall short. Instead of beating yourself up, treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend.
Navigating the Type A vs. Type B Trend Mindfully
The Type A vs. Type B friend trend on TikTok offers a fun way to look at personality differences, but it can also highlight deeper issues around comparison and self-worth. By becoming aware of how comparison impacts mental health, we can take steps to reduce its negative effects. Embrace your individuality, focus on your own journey, and practice self-compassion—because at the end of the day, the only person you should compare yourself to is who you were yesterday.
If you’re having difficulty focusing on your well-being or have a teen that is struggling with depression due to comparisons, it may be time to seek external support. Our team at Centered Health is here to help. We can connect you with the best resources for additional mental health support through our network of treatment centers.
Beachside Teen Treatment Center in Malibu, CA
Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center in Agoura Hills, CA
