Maximizing Versus Satisficing: Happiness Is A Matter Of Choice

Authors

Barry Schwartz, Swarthmore CollegeFollow
Andrew Ward, Swarthmore CollegeFollow
J. Monterosso
S. Lyubomirsky
K. White
D. R. Lehman

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-1-2002

Published In

Journal Of Personality And Social Psychology

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. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved)(journal abstract)

Recommended Citation

Barry Schwartz, Andrew Ward, J. Monterosso, S. Lyubomirsky, K. White, and D. R. Lehman. (2002). "Maximizing Versus Satisficing: Happiness Is A Matter Of Choice". Journal Of Personality And Social Psychology. Volume 83, Issue 5. 1178-1197. DOI: 10.1037/0022-3514.83.5.1178
https://works.swarthmore.edu/fac-psychology/101