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The construct-behavior gap and the description-experience gap: Comment on Regenwetter and Robinson (2017)
Ralph Hertwig1, Timothy J Pleskac1
1Max Planck Institute for Human Development.
Psychological Review
|October 10, 2018
Summary
The construct-behavior gap in psychology arises from linking theoretical constructs to observed behavior. Addressing this gap requires acknowledging multidimensionality and diverse sources of heterogeneity in decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Psychological research
- Decision-making science
- Behavioral economics
Background:
- The construct-behavior gap challenges psychological research by linking theoretical constructs (e.g., preferences) to observed behavior (e.g., choices).
- Heuristic methods often fail to account for individual heterogeneity, invalidating inferences from choices to preferences.
- The description-experience gap (D-E gap) exemplifies this challenge, showing systematic differences in choices based on described versus experienced probabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate Regenwetter and Robinson's (2017) proposed remedy for the construct-behavior gap.
- To highlight limitations in reducing the D-E gap solely to probability weighting.
- To advocate for a more comprehensive approach to modeling heterogeneity in choice behavior.
Main Methods:
- Reanalysis of early data sets on the D-E gap, incorporating heterogeneity.
- Examination of the D-E gap across multiple psychological constructs.
- Analysis of heterogeneity in sampled experience within decisions from experience.
- Identification of sources of heterogeneity beyond probabilistic responses and preferences.
Main Results:
- While Regenwetter and Robinson's approach provides evidence for the D-E gap in probability weighting, it oversimplifies the phenomenon.
- The D-E gap is influenced by multiple psychological constructs, not just probability weighting.
- Heterogeneity in experienced sampling and other factors contribute to the D-E gap, necessitating broader modeling considerations.
Conclusions:
- The construct-behavior gap requires acknowledging the multidimensional nature of behavior and diverse sources of heterogeneity.
- A pluralistic approach to modeling heterogeneity is crucial for accurate inferences in psychological research.
- Simplifications in scientific theories are necessary but must be balanced with rigorous and logically coherent frameworks.
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