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Testing the Advantages of Conscious vs. Unconscious Thought for Complex Decisions in a Distraction Free Paradigm

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Listed:
  • McElroy, Todd

    (Florida Gulf Coast University)

  • Dickinson, David L.

    (Appalachian State University)

Abstract

In this study we test predictions from Unconscious Thought Theory (UTT) that unconscious thought will lead to better decision making in complex decision tasks relative to conscious thought. Different from prior work testing this prediction, we use a method of manipulating conscious and unconscious thinking that is free from distraction. Specifically, we use a 3-week protocol to experimentally induce adverse sleep and circadian states, both of which should reduce deliberative, conscious thinking and therefore increase the relative importance of more automatic unconscious processes. Our findings fail to support UTT predictions and instead coalesce with other replication attempts that cast doubt on the superiority of unconscious processing in complex decision making.

Suggested Citation

  • McElroy, Todd & Dickinson, David L., 2016. "Testing the Advantages of Conscious vs. Unconscious Thought for Complex Decisions in a Distraction Free Paradigm," IZA Discussion Papers 10347, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp10347
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Felix Acker, 2008. "New findings on unconscious versus conscious thought in decision making: additional empirical data and meta-analysis," Judgment and Decision Making, Society for Judgment and Decision Making, vol. 3, pages 292-303, April.
    2. Dustin P. Calvillo & Alan Penaloza, 2009. "Are complex decisions better left to the unconscious? Further failed replications of the deliberation-without-attention effect," Judgment and Decision Making, Society for Judgment and Decision Making, vol. 4(6), pages 509-517, October.
    3. Todd J. Thorsteinson & Scott Withrow, 2009. "Does unconscious thought outperform conscious thought on complex decisions? A further examination," Judgment and Decision Making, Society for Judgment and Decision Making, vol. 4(3), pages 235-247, April.
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    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles

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