Impact of framing (gain vs. loss) on status quo choice: the moderating effect of gender
摘要
Growing evidence indicates that framing can significantly affect decision-making. Following previous contributions, we explored the relationship between status quo choice and framing (gain vs. loss). However, existing research has not addressed the moderating influence of gender on this relationship. To address this significant gap and offer a more nuanced understanding of decision-making processes, we examined how gender moderates the relationship between status quo choice and framing. We used a between-subjects experimental design with 148 undergraduate business and economics students. To address our research question, we used the Poisson regression model. Results indicated that participants were more likely to choose the status quo option in the loss frame compared to the gain frame. Furthermore, we found a gender-based disparity in status quo preference. Specifically, women chose the status quo option more frequently. Indeed, gender moderates the effect of treatment on choices of the status quo option. Therefore, our paper offers valuable insights for policymakers and academics alike, highlighting the importance of understanding how framing and gender influence decision-making processes.