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The relationship between information processing style and information seeking, and its moderation by affect and perceived usefulness: analysis vs. procrastination

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  • Soane, Emma
  • Schubert, Iljana
  • Lunn, Rebecca
  • Pollard, Simon

Abstract

We examined the relationship between information processing style and information seeking, and its moderation by anxiety and information utility. Information about Salmonella, a potentially commonplace disease, was presented to 2960 adults. Two types of information processing were examined: preferences for analytical or heuristic processing, and preferences for immediate or delayed processing. Information seeking was captured by measuring the number of additional pieces of information sought by participants. Preferences for analytical information processing were associated positively and directly with information seeking. Heuristic information processing was associated negatively and directly with information seeking. The positive relationship between preferences for delayed decision making and information seeking was moderated by anxiety and by information utility. Anxiety reduced the tendency to seek additional information. Information utility increased the likelihood of information seeking. The findings indicate that low levels of anxiety could prompt information seeking. However, information seeking occurred even when information was perceived as useful and sufficient, suggesting that it can be a form of procrastination rather than a useful contribution to effective decision making.

Suggested Citation

  • Soane, Emma & Schubert, Iljana & Lunn, Rebecca & Pollard, Simon, 2015. "The relationship between information processing style and information seeking, and its moderation by affect and perceived usefulness: analysis vs. procrastination," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 59704, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:59704
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    Cited by:

    1. Jay D. Hmielowski & Meredith Y. Wang & Rebecca R. Donaway, 2018. "Expanding the Political Philosophy Dimension of the RISP Model: Examining the Conditional Indirect Effects of Cultural Cognition," Risk Analysis, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 38(9), pages 1891-1903, September.
    2. Haans, Richard F.J. & van Witteloostuijn, Arjen, 2024. "Does foreign language liberate or limit creativity? Three experiments on foreign language anxiety and use, and divergent and convergent thinking," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 33(4).
    3. Shabnam Hamdi & Abu Daud Silong & Zoharah Binti Omar & Roziah Mohd Rasdi, 2016. "Impact of T-shaped skill and top management support on innovation speed; the moderating role of technology uncertainty," Cogent Business & Management, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 3(1), pages 1153768-115, December.
    4. Lu, Hang & Song, Hwanseok & McComas, Katherine, 2021. "Seeking information about enhanced geothermal systems: The role of fairness, uncertainty, systematic processing, and information engagement intentions," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 169(C), pages 855-864.
    5. Haitham Medhat Abdelaziz Elsayed Aboulilah & Syed Far Abid Hossain & Bui Nhat Vuong & Tawfiq Jebril, 2022. "Exploring the Relationship between WeChat Usage and E-purchase Intention During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among University Students in China," SAGE Open, , vol. 12(4), pages 21582440221, November.

    More about this item

    Keywords

    decision making; dual process theory; information processing; information seeking; RISP theory;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J50 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor-Management Relations, Trade Unions, and Collective Bargaining - - - General

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