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Coupling: the implicit assumption behind sunk cost effect and related phenomena

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  • Bernadette Kamleitner

Abstract

Coupling is the degree to which thoughts of consumption evoke thoughts of payment and vice versa. This mental association is crucial for diverse phenomena like sunk costs but has rarely been addressed in the literature. This article provides a framework for the phenomenon, highlights its theoretical and practical relevance, compiles existing literature, adds empirical findings, and comes up with directions for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Bernadette Kamleitner, 2008. "Coupling: the implicit assumption behind sunk cost effect and related phenomena," Working Papers 22, Queen Mary, University of London, School of Business and Management, Centre for Globalisation Research.
    • Handle: RePEc:cgs:wpaper:22
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    File URL: http://cgr.sbm.qmul.ac.uk/CGRWP22.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    coupling; sunk costs; consumer psychology;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D11 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Theory
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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