 From lab to life: Decoding the predictive power of present bias on adolescent self-control behaviorsXiaomeng Zhang, Shan Jin, Xide Chen, Haolan Li, Jiarong Wang and Sibo Yan Economics Letters, 2024, vol. 235, issue C Abstract: This research examines the external validity of laboratory-measured preferences, specifically present bias, in predicting real-life adolescent behaviors. Rooted in the broader debate in experimental economics, we investigate the transferability of lab results, especially in relation to self-control manifestations. Engaging approximately 200 adolescents aged 14 to 19, we assessed present bias through standard intertemporal monetary decisions in a lab setting. Our findings indicate a divergence in the predictive power of laboratory observations. In health-related behaviors, significant correlations were observed between laboratory measurements and BMI, but not with exercise frequency. Meanwhile, academic behaviors such as attendance in self-study courses and late homework submissions were strongly associated. This study sheds light on the nuanced applicability of laboratory-derived preferences in real-world contexts, emphasizing the need for domain-specific considerations. Keywords: Lab experiment; Real-life behavior; Time preferences; Adolescent (search for similar items in EconPapers) Downloads: (external link) Related works: Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:ecolet:v:235:y:2024:i:c:s0165176523005426 DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2023.111516 Access Statistics for this article Economics Letters is currently edited by Economics Letters Editorial Office More articles in Economics Letters from Elsevier |
Is your work missing from RePEc? Here is how to contribute.
Questions or problems? Check the EconPapers FAQ or send mail to .
EconPapers is hosted by the
School of Business at Örebro University.