Subjective valuation and asymmetrical motivational systems: implications of scope insensitivity for decision making

Abstract

Researchers studying decision-making and the use of the Iowa Gambling Task found evidence that approach and avoidance motivational systems influence the subjective valuation and decision making. Bias toward large reward impedes successful performance on the task, while bias away from large losses supports successful performance. Sensitivity to reward and punishment was investigated by classifying participants into four quadrants based on their scores in self-reported BIS (behavioral inhibition system) and BAS (behavioral activation system) scales. Results indicate that asymmetry in these systems leads to systematic biases that translate to differences in performance on the two versions of the Iowa Gambling Task. – AI generated abstract.