Leiden University Student Repository

Cattell-White, Benjamin (2025)

Decisions, decisions, decisons! The self-generation of decision options in maximisers and satisficers.

Master thesis | Psychology (MSc)

Maximisers and satisficers are opposing types of decision-makers, searching for a perfect or good enough choice, respectfully. Previous studies often present participants with pre-selected options, this study focused on how participants self-generate options, as this is essential for everyday functioning. Using a questionnaire study (N= 276), we asked participants to generate options for a decision and then rate their choice satisfaction. Immediately after, completing short-form maximisation and satisficer scales to measure decision-making tendencies. We find no relationship between maximisers and satisfaction, or with the number of options generated, however, we did find a relationship between satisficers and satisfaction. It is implied maximisers are more satisfied self-generating options, than when given pre-set options, potentially for the freedom to achieve their best outcome. But due to the fatiguing process employed, their satisfaction is muted.

Decision making

maximisers

satisficers

self-generation

decisions

survey

Author

Cattell-White, Benjamin

Faculty

Faculty of Social & Behavioural Sciences

Specialisation

Economic and Consumer Psychology

Supervisors

Moya, M.L.M.

ECTS Credits

20

Language

en