The Economics of Losing a Loved One
Year: 2015
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The tendency for individuals to discount the subjective value of future rewards is a well-established phenomenon. Individual differences in the rate at which one devalues the future have been associated with a range of economic and health outcomes. In this study we investigate future reward discounting in prolonged grief (PG), a potential outcome of bereavement that is associated with significant impairment. A total of 75 bereaved individuals, recruited online, made a series of choices between a small amount of money available immediately and a larger amount available after a specified delay. Greater PG symptomatology was associated with greater discounting of both a small and a relatively larger delayed reward. Results are consistent with findings suggesting that individuals with PG have difficulties orienting to the future and help shed light on economic decision making processes that may contribute to ongoing dysfunction in PG.
Source: Clinical Psychological Science
Authors: Fiona Maccallum, George A. Bonanno
Institutions: UNSW Sydney, Columbia University
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2185138171