Maximizing versus satisficing: Happiness is a matter of choice.
California University of Pennsylvania · Swarthmore College · +3 more institutions
Abstract
Can people feel worse off as the options they face increase? The present studies suggest that some people--maximizers--can. Study 1 reported a Maximization Scale, which measures individual differences in desire to maximize. Seven samples revealed negative correlations between maximization and happiness, optimism, self-esteem, and life satisfaction, and positive correlations between maximization and depression, perfectionism, and regret. Study 2 found maximizers less satisfied than nonmaximizers (satisficers) with consumer decisions, and more likely to engage in social comparison. Study 3 found maximizers more adversely affected by upward social comparison. Study 4 found maximizers more sensitive to regret and…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 9.27
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 91
Authors
6- BSBarry SchwartzCorresponding
California University of Pennsylvania, Swarthmore College, University of Pennsylvania, University of British Columbia, University of California, Riverside
- AWAndrew Ward
California University of Pennsylvania, University of California, Riverside, University of British Columbia, Swarthmore College, University of Pennsylvania
- JMJohn Monterosso
California University of Pennsylvania, Swarthmore College, University of British Columbia, University of California, Riverside, University of Pennsylvania
- SLSonja Lyubomirsky
California University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania, University of British Columbia, Swarthmore College, University of California, Riverside
- KWKatherine White
University of California, Riverside, University of British Columbia, University of Pennsylvania, Swarthmore College, California University of Pennsylvania
Topics & keywords
- Satisficing
- Happiness
- Psychology
- Social psychology
- Economics
- Microeconomics