Loss Aversion in Riskless Choice: A Reference-Dependent Model

S-Tier
Journal: Quarterly Journal of Economics
Year: 1991
Volume: 106
Issue: 4
Pages: 1039-1061

Authors (2)

Amos Tversky (not in RePEc) Daniel Kahneman

Score contribution per author:

4.022 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 4.0x S-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

Much experimental evidence indicates that choice depends on the status quo or reference level: changes of reference point often lead to reversals of preference. We present a reference-dependent theory of consumer choice, which explains such effects by a deformation of indifference curves about the reference point. The central assumption of the theory is that losses and disadvantages have greater impact on preferences than gains and advantages. Implications of loss aversion for economic behavior are considered.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:oup:qjecon:v:106:y:1991:i:4:p:1039-1061.
Journal Field
General
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25