Abstract
The discussion-arguments and information-exchange explanations of the risky-, cautious-shift phenomenon were tested in three conditions. An information-exchange-only condition provided mere exposure to others’ initial responses, a discussion-only condition elicited discussion without information exchange, and a discussion-plus-information-exchange condition combined the two elements. Significant shift was observed in each of the three conditions. Other analyses examined the relationship between perceived relative riskiness and shift and between Ss’ aptitude scores and initial tendencies in the valued direction. The data generally supported the discussion arguments explanation.
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This paper is based on a senior honor’s thesis conducted by the second author during 1969–1970 under the supervision of the first author. The research was supported by a National Science Foundation grant (No. GS 2891) to the first author. Appreciation is expressed to George D. Bishop, who conducted the data analyses.
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Myers, D.G., Wong, D.W. & Murdoch, P. Discussion arguments, information about others’ responses, and risky shift. Psychon Sci 24, 81–83 (1971). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03337903
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03337903