Age Differences in Risky Decisions: The Role of Anticipated Emotions

摘要

The present study investigated the role of anticipated emotions in risky decisions of young and older adults. Young and older adults were asked to make a choice between an alternative that may have either a very positive or a very negative consequence and an alternative that was relatively safe. Meanwhile, they rated their anticipated emotions if the results turned out to be positive or negative. Older adults' decisions were significantly influenced by anticipated positive emotions (e.g., happiness). Younger adults' decisions were associated by anticipated negative emotions (e.g., regret). These results have implications in decision making of older adults.