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The anatomy of competitiveness

Author

Listed:
  • Thomas Buser

    (University of Amsterdam)

  • Hessel Oosterbeek

    (University of Amsterdam)

Abstract

A large empirical literature in behavioral economics investigates heterogeneity across individuals and groups in preferences for competition. In this study, we provide a more detailed view on competitiveness by differentiating between four different motivations for entering competitions – enjoyment of competition, desire to win, competition for personal development, and general challenge seeking. We investigate which of these dimensions are picked up by traditional measures of competitiveness; how they predict individual and gender differences in career outcomes including income, holding a leadership position, and entrepreneurship; how they predict wellbeing; and how they relate to other personality traits, skills, and preferences.

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas Buser & Hessel Oosterbeek, "undated". "The anatomy of competitiveness," Tinbergen Institute Discussion Papers 23-031/I, Tinbergen Institute.
    • Handle: RePEc:tin:wpaper:20230031
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Janine Albiez & Maurizio Strazzeri & Stefan C. Wolter, 2024. "Students' grit and their post-compulsory educational choices and trajectories: Evidence from Switzerland," Economics of Education Working Paper Series 0215, University of Zurich, Department of Business Administration (IBW).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    competitiveness; personality traits; labor market outcomes; leadership; gender;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C92 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Group Behavior
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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