Why do people overindulge?

Being distracted while engaging in enjoyable activities like eating dinner can reduce satisfaction and lead to overcompensation later, according to new research published by the American Psychological Association. 

The study examined how distraction affects "hedonic consumption" or buying and using products and experiences because they make us feel good and not because we need them. One reason for overconsumption may be distraction; when people are distracted during a hedonic activity, they are likely to experience less enjoyment from it than if they were fully focused. This can lead to dissatisfaction and drive more consumption to compensate. 

Researchers asked 122 participants to report how much they expected to enjoy their lunch before eating it. Then, they were asked to eat their lunch under either no distraction, moderate distraction or high distraction, and report their actual enjoyment and satisfaction. Participants who ate while distracted reported lower enjoyment and satisfaction and had an increased desire for further gratification. 

Read more: American Psychological Association 

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