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Pessimism-Optimism and Risk Taking in Individual and Group Contexts

Author(s):
Kogan, Nathan; Lamm, Helmut; Trommsdorff, Gisela
Publication Year:
1969
Report Number:
RB-69-56
Source:
ETS Research Bulletin
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
26
Subject/Key Words:
Advanced Research Projects Agency, Attitudes, Behavioral Science Research, Group Dynamics, Individual Characteristics, Risk, Social Values

Abstract

Choice-dilemmas items were administered with the customary risk-taking (R) format (minimal acceptable odds to warrant recommendation of the desirable risky alternative) and with a pessimism-optimism (P) format (estimation of the actual "real-world" probability of success of the desirable risky alternative). Following individual testing to establish baseline levels, subjects were randomly assigned to either an R-P or P-R treatment. In the former, discussion to consensus was focused on the R dimension, and subsequent P judgments were made privately; in the latter, discussion to consensus was focused on the P dimension, and subsequent R judgments were made privately. Results indicated that the link between R and P was asymmetrical. The risky shift was produced only when discussion was oriented along the R dimension. In contrast, pessimistic shifts were obtained following both R and P discussions. Group-induced pessimism was attributed to pooling or heightened realization of the "things that might go wrong" in pursuing a risky course of action.

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