Schwartz, B., Ward, A., Monterosso, J., Lyubomirsky, S., White, K., &Lehman, D. R. (2002). Maximizing versus satisficing: Happiness is a matter of choice.
Can people feel worse off as the options they face increase? The present studies suggest that some people--maximizers--can. Study 1 reported a Maximization Scale, which measures individual differences in desire to maximize. Seven samples revealed negative correlations between maximization and happiness, optimism, self-esteem, and life satisfaction, and positive correlations between maximization and depression, perfectionism, and regret. Study 2 found maximizers less satisfied than nonmaximizers (satisficers) ...
