Maximizing Versus Satisficing: Happiness Is a Matter of Choice (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2002)

Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2002, Vol. 83, No. 5, 1178–1197

Barry Schwartz and Andrew Ward...Swarthmore College
John Monterosso...University of Pennsylvania
Sonja Lyubomirsky...University of California, Riverside
Katherine White and Darrin R. Lehman...University of British Columbia


Abstract:

Can people feel worse off as the options they face increase? The present studies suggest that somepeople—maximizers—can. Study 1 reported a Maximization Scale, which measures individual differencesin desire to maximize. Seven samples revealed negative correlations between maximization andhappiness, optimism, self-esteem, and life satisfaction, and positive correlations between maximizationand 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 foundmaximizers more adversely affected by upward social comparison. Study 4 found maximizers moresensitive to regret and less satisfied in an ultimatum bargaining game. The interaction between maximizingand choice is discussed in terms of regret, adaptation, and self-blame.

continued on: Maximizing Versus Satisficing: Happiness Is a Matter of Choice