ST1 - Can there ever be too many options Flashcards
What is a meta analysis?
A systematic review of existing studies to discover existing knowledge and trends
What is choice overload?
The phenomenon where too many options lead to less satisfaction or decision paralysis
What were the meta-analysis results regarding choice overload in Scheibehenne’s article?
They found mixed evidence; some studies support choice overload, while others don’t
Is there a clear threshold for the number of options that cause choice overload?
No, the meta-analysis did not identify a consistent number triggering overload
How does the context impact the choice overload phenomenon?
Whether overload occurs can depend on the specific context of the decision.
What is the paradox of choice?
The idea that more options can sometimes lead to less satisfaction
What are the moderating factors influencing choice overload in Scheibehenne’s article?
Expertise or prior preferences (only significant one aside from publication status and year)
What are some suggested preconditions for choice overload?
Assortment choice, prior expertise or preference, country/culture, real or hypothetical choice, decision task difficulty
What are the main steps of the meta analysis?
- Data collection (set inclusion criteria)
- Calculate the effect size per study
- Calculate the mean effect size
- Assess hetereogeneity (same variables, same research, same environment
- Explain heterogeneity (moderators)
What are some arguments in favor of choice overload?
- Comparing options is time consuming
- More options result in more fear of regret
- More options makes it difficult to judge differences
- Expectations increase
What are some arguments against choice overload?
- Fit the needs of the consumers
- Many options = low cost search
- Rationality of ‘the more the better’
- Some field data contradicts the existence
What are two necessary preconditions for choice overload?
- Lack of familiarity / preferences
- No dominant option
