Choice Overload Bias: The Paradox of Too Many Options

Choice overload bias is a cognitive bias that occurs when individuals are presented with too many options, which can lead to negative outcomes. This bias is often related to decision-making and can be seen in various contexts, such as consumer behaviour, personal finance, and healthcare.

When individuals are presented with too many choices, they may become overwhelmed and find it difficult to decide. This can lead to decision paralysis, where they may delay or avoid making a decision altogether. Additionally, individuals may experience decision fatigue, where the mental effort required to make a decision becomes exhausting, leading to decreased cognitive performance and motivation.

Another negative outcome of choice overload bias is the potential for regret. When individuals are presented with many options, they may worry about making the wrong choice and experience regret if their decision does not meet their expectations. This regret can lead to decreased satisfaction and may even deter individuals from making similar decisions in the future.