Maximization Test
Maximizing vs Satisficing Decision Tendency
Do you go for the best, or settle for good enough? Your decision style shapes your satisfaction and happiness. 13 items assessing where you fall on the maximizer-satisficer spectrum. About 5 minutes.
What Is the Maximization Scale (Schwartz, 2002)?
The Maximization Scale measures individual differences in the tendency to maximize — the drive to seek the absolute best option — versus satisficing — being content with options that meet your standards. Barry Schwartz and colleagues published it in 2002.
Based on Herbert Simon's (1955) theory of bounded rationality, the scale captures a fundamental personality dimension with significant implications for well-being.
How It Works
13 items, each rated on a 7-point Likert scale:
- 1 = Strongly Disagree → 7 = Strongly Agree
- Total score range: 13–91
- No reverse-coded items
- Higher scores = stronger maximizing tendency
Three Dimensions
Maximization behavior (Q1–Q6): The tendency to seek alternatives even when satisfied with current options. Example: scanning TV channels, checking radio stations, treating relationships as searchable.
Shopping behaviors (Q7–Q10): Difficulty making purchase decisions due to fear of missing the optimal choice. Includes gift selection, clothing shopping, and entertainment choices.
High standards (Q11–Q13): Unwillingness to settle for "good enough." Setting the highest possible bar in all domains.
Score Interpretation
| Score Range | Category | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| 13–38 | Low maximizer (Satisficer) | Content with meeting standards; higher life satisfaction |
| 39–64 | Moderate maximizer | Balanced tendency; domain-specific maximizing |
| 65–91 | High maximizer | Active search for best options; lower satisfaction, more regret |
Key Research Findings
- Maximizers earn higher salaries on average (+20%) but report lower satisfaction with their outcomes (Schwartz et al., 2002)
- Correlation with well-being: maximizers show lower life satisfaction (r = -.25 with SWLS) and higher depression risk (r = .34 with BDI) (Schwartz et al., 2002)
- Maximizers experience more regret and counterfactual thinking
- The scale has been cited over 5,000 times and spawned extensive research on choice overload
When to Use This Test
- You often wonder if you could have made a better choice
- Decision-making feels exhausting because you consider every alternative
- You frequently compare your outcomes to what others have achieved
- You want to understand why more options don't always lead to more happiness
Scoring Guide
13 items, 7-point Likert (1=Strongly Disagree, 7=Strongly Agree). Total score range 13-91. Higher scores = stronger maximizing tendency. No reverse-coded items.Result Interpretation
Finish the 13 questions and you get your results straight away — no account, no sign-up, no waiting.
We calculate your total from your answers, then give you a plain-language explanation of what the numbers mean. Whenever possible, we also show how your results compare to population norms.
详细报告 📊
Get an in-depth analysis with dimension breakdowns, population comparisons, and actionable recommendations.