Are Maximizers Unhappier than Satisficers? A Comparison between Japan and the USA

Abstract

The present research examined whether maximizing tendencies are associated with lower levels of sub-jective well-being among Japanese and American residents. Two popular scales exist to measure maxi-mizing tendencies: a Schwartz et al. (2002) scale that conceptualizes maximizing as a combination of high standards and a strong desire to optimize choice and a Diab, Gillespie, and Highhouse (2008) scale which primarily emphasizes the high standards component of maximizing tendencies. Among Ameri-cans, maximizers reported being more depressed, less happy, and less satisfied with their lives when assessed by Schwartz et al.’s (2002) scale. In contrast, when assessed by Diab et al.’s (2008) scale, Amer-ican maximizers actually reported being happier than satisficers. Among Japanese, however, maximizers reported being more depressed, less happy, and less satisfied with their lives regardless of the scale used.