TITLE

The Impact of Imposed Patterning, Intrinsic Motivation, and Cognition on Random and Simple Outcomes in Choice Behavior

AUTHOR(S)

Kudadjie-Gyamfi, Elizabeth

PUB. DATE

October 2006

SOURCE

Behavior Analyst Today;Oct2006, Vol. 7 Issue 4, p481

SOURCE TYPE

Academic Journal

DOC. TYPE

Article

ABSTRACT

This study examined the impact of intrinsic motivation, cognition of the rules underlying choices and their outcomes, and imposed patterning of choice-outcome sets on decision making. Ninety-eight undergraduates were placed in one of three experimental groups and chose between two alternatives that differed in local and overall rates, and under random and simple choice conditions. As expected, accurate perception of the underlying non-verbalized rules was associated with more optimal decision making. Furthermore, imposed patterning and intrinsic motivation (a moderator) were significant factors in determining optimal decision making. These findings support the call for behavioral decision making researchers to consider the role of cognition (rule generation), and personality factors (e.g., intrinsic motivation) in understanding and providing intervention for social behavior changes that may be contingency-governed.

ACCESSION #

53292769

Tags: CHOICE (Psychology);  DECISION making -- Research;  INTERPERSONAL relations;  INTRINSIC motivation;  COGNITION;  UNDERGRADUATES

 

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