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 scale:
- 1 = Strongly Disagree → 7 = Strongly Agree
- 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
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
Result Interpretation
After completing the 13 questions, you'll receive an immediate, detailed report with:
- Your score — calculated automatically based on your responses
- Score interpretation — what your score means in practical terms
- Context — how your results compare to general population norms where available
All results are displayed on screen. No account or login needed.