Maximizing versus satisficing: happiness is a matter of choice |
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Authors: | Schwartz Barry Ward Andrew Monterosso John Lyubomirsky Sonja White Katherine Lehman Darrin R |
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Institution: | Department of Psychology, Swarthmore College, Pennsylvania 19081, USA. bschwar1@swarthmore.edu |
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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 less satisfied in an ultimatum bargaining game. The interaction between maximizing and choice is discussed in terms of regret, adaptation, and self-blame. |
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