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Are maximizers really unhappy? The measurement of maximizing tendency

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  • Diab, Dalia L.
  • Gillespie, Michael A.
  • Highhouse, Scott

Abstract

Recent research suggesting that people who maximize are less happy than those who satisfice has received considerable fanfare. The current study investigates whether this conclusion reflects the construct itself or rather how it is measured. We developed an alternative measure of maximizing tendency that is theory-based, has good psychometric properties, and predicts behavioral outcomes. In contrast to the existing maximization measure, our new measure did not correlate with life (dis)satisfaction, nor with most maladaptive personality and decision-making traits. We conclude that the interpretation of maximizers as unhappy may be due to poor measurement of the construct. We present a more reliable and valid measure for future researchers to use.

Suggested Citation

  • Diab, Dalia L. & Gillespie, Michael A. & Highhouse, Scott, 2008. "Are maximizers really unhappy? The measurement of maximizing tendency," Judgment and Decision Making, Cambridge University Press, vol. 3(5), pages 364-370, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:judgdm:v:3:y:2008:i:5:p:364-370_1
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    Cited by:

    1. Fu, Jingcheng & Zhang, Xing & Zhong, Songfa, 2025. "Hedging-based scoring rules for multiple-choice questions," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 237(C).
    2. Sun, Jin & Liu, Ruining & Luan, Mo, 2025. "Does seeking the best lead to sustainable consumption?," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 201(C).
    3. Volkan Doğan & Enis Yakut & Selin Göral Nazlıoğlu & Ali Emre Aydın & Bahadır Ayar & Derya Yalçın Doğan, 2025. "Why Are Maximizers More Vulnerable to Fear of Missing Out? Exploring the Link Between Maximization and Fear of Missing Out Through Variety-Seeking," SAGE Open, , vol. 15(3), pages 21582440251, September.

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