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Individual-level loss aversion in riskless and risky choices

Author

Listed:
  • Simon Gächter

    (University of Nottingham
    CESifo
    Institute of Labour Economics)

  • Eric J. Johnson

    (Columbia Business School)

  • Andreas Herrmann

    (University of St. Gallen)

Abstract

Loss aversion can occur in riskless and risky choices. We present novel evidence on both in a non-student sample (660 randomly selected customers of a car manufacturer). We measure loss aversion in riskless choice in endowment effect experiments within and between subjects and find similar levels of average loss aversion in both. The subjects of the within study also participate in a simple lottery choice task which arguably measures loss aversion in risky choices. We find substantial heterogeneity in both measures of loss aversion. Loss aversion in riskless choice and loss aversion in risky choice are strongly positively correlated, but on average riskless loss aversion is higher than risky loss aversion. We find that in both choice tasks, loss aversion increases in age, income, and wealth, and decreases in education. Our results provide novel supportive input to the debate about the reality of loss aversion.

Suggested Citation

  • Simon Gächter & Eric J. Johnson & Andreas Herrmann, 2022. "Individual-level loss aversion in riskless and risky choices," Theory and Decision, Springer, vol. 92(3), pages 599-624, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:theord:v:92:y:2022:i:3:d:10.1007_s11238-021-09839-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s11238-021-09839-8
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Loss aversion; Endowment effect; Reference-dependent preferences; Lab-in-the-field experiments;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty

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