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Reference Points and Effort Provision

Author

Listed:
  • Abeler, Johannes

    (University of Oxford)

  • Falk, Armin

    (University of Bonn)

  • Götte, Lorenz

    (National University of Singapore)

  • Huffman, David B.

    (University of Pittsburgh)

Abstract

A key open question for theories of reference-dependent preferences is what determines the reference point. One candidate is expectations: what people expect could affect how they feel about what actually occurs. In a real-effort experiment, we manipulate the rational expectations of subjects and check whether this manipulation influences their effort provision. We find that effort provision is significantly different between treatments in the way predicted by models of expectation-based reference-dependent preferences: if expectations are high, subjects work longer and earn more money than if expectations are low.

Suggested Citation

  • Abeler, Johannes & Falk, Armin & Götte, Lorenz & Huffman, David B., 2009. "Reference Points and Effort Provision," IZA Discussion Papers 3939, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp3939
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    reference points; expectations; loss aversion; risk aversion; disappointment; experiment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D01 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Behavior: Underlying Principles
    • D84 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Expectations; Speculations
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply

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