Studies of Human Decision Making Reveal Several Systematic Mistakes People

question 327

Multiple Choice

Studies of human decision making reveal several systematic mistakes people make. Which of the following is not an example of one of these mistakes?

• A)Tom tells everyone he's sure he can run a 5K in twenty-five minutes, but then tries a couple of times and takes over thirty minutes.
• B)Kate hears a news report about five people dying from a tornado in Kansas and decides to cancel her plans to visit her aunt there.
• C)Randi is a strong proponent of raising the minimum wage. She reads a research report on the effects of increasing the minimum wage and begins to doubt her previous thinking.
• D)Jenny is shopping for a new car and has found that Hondota cars consistently get high quality ratings. Her friend had trouble with her Hondota, so Jenny decides not to purchase a Hondota.

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Definitions:

Reactance

Brehm’s theory that people try to protect their freedom to act. When they perceive that this freedom has been curtailed, they will act to regain it.

Inoculation Effect

A social psychology theory that suggests exposure to a weakened form of an argument increases later resistance to that argument.

Analogy

A comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.

Anti-Smoking Campaign

Public health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking through education, awareness, and policies.