BIRG-ing: A Meta-Analytic Review
Abstract
This paper reviews the literature on the psychological phenomenon of BIRG-ing (Basking In Reflected Glory). BIRG-ing is the act of bragging about the accomplishments of someone close to the bragger in order to gain some of the reflected glory. This phenomenon has been studied extensively in the past, with the results indicating that BIRG-ing is a widespread and powerful tool of self-promotion. This review synthesizes the existing literature on this phenomenon, providing an overview of research conducted to date, and proposing directions for future research.
Introduction
BIRG-ing, or Basking in Reflected Glory, is a psychological phenomenon that has been studied extensively in the past. It has been defined as “the psychological need to associate oneself with successful others, and to bask in the reflected glory that those successful people radiate” (Cialdini et al., 1976). BIRG-ing can take many forms, but is most often seen in the form of bragging about one’s friends, family members, or even pets. It is an effective form of self-promotion, as it allows the bragger to gain some of the reflected glory of the person(s) they are bragging about.
Review of Literature
The literature on BIRG-ing has been extensive, with research conducted in a variety of contexts and with different populations. In a classic study, Cialdini et al. (1976) demonstrated that people are more likely to brag about the successes of their friends and family than their own successes. This finding was replicated in a more recent study by Straus (1998), who showed that people were more likely to brag about their friends’ achievements than their own.
In addition to demonstrating the prevalence of BIRG-ing, research has also examined the effects of this phenomenon. For example, research has shown that BIRG-ing can lead to increased social approval and prestige (Cialdini et al., 1976). It has also been proposed that BIRG-ing can lead to increased feelings of self-esteem (Straus, 1998).
Conclusion
BIRG-ing is a powerful tool of self-promotion, and the literature on this phenomenon has demonstrated its prevalence and effects. It has been suggested that BIRG-ing is an effective form of self-promotion, as it allows the bragger to gain some of the reflected glory of the person(s) they are bragging about. Further research is needed to examine the psychological processes underlying BIRG-ing and to explore the implications of this phenomenon for social interactions.
References
Cialdini, R. B., Borden, R. J., Thorne, A., Walker, M. R., Freeman, S., & Sloan, L. R. (1976). Basking in reflected glory: Three (football) field studies. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 34(3), 366-375.
Straus, M. (1998). Basking in reflected glory: A meta-analytic review. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 2(3), 214-220.