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Measurement of delay discounting using trial-by-trial consequences
Scott D. Lane1, Don R. Cherek, Cynthia J. Pietras
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, 1300 Moursund Street, 77030, Houston, TX, USA
Behavioural Processes
|October 29, 2003
Summary
Human delay discounting, the tendency to devalue future rewards, was studied using hypothetical and real-consequence procedures. Results show distinct discounting patterns across methods, with some individuals exhibiting complete self-control in real-world scenarios.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Economics
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Delay discounting describes the tendency for humans to devalue rewards as they are delayed.
- Understanding discounting is crucial for studying impulsivity and self-control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate human delay discounting using three distinct procedures.
- To compare discounting patterns and measures across hypothetical and contingent reward scenarios.
Main Methods:
- Employed three procedures: hypothetical rewards/delays, compressed hypothetical values, and a contingent procedure with direct experienced consequences.
- Participants experienced all three procedures to allow for direct comparison.
Main Results:
- Consistent hyperbolic discounting patterns were observed across all procedures.
- Significant differences in discounting measures and patterns emerged between the hypothetical and contingent procedures.
- A subset of participants demonstrated no discounting in the contingent procedure, indicating complete self-control.
Conclusions:
- Procedural variations significantly influence the measurement of delay discounting.
- The contingent discounting procedure offers a more ecologically valid assessment of self-control.
- Future research should leverage contingent procedures to explore impulsivity and decision-making under realistic conditions.