Effects of incentive as a within- and between-subjects variable in risk-taking

Abstract

Risk-taking behavior as a function of incentive condition, range of payoffs, and alternative to gambling was investigated in a mixed 2 by 3 by 3 factorial design. Thirty-six Ss were divided into three experimental groups depending on the incentive condition. Incentive was presented as both a within-and between-Ss variable, and range of payoffs and alternative to gambling were manipulated as within-Ss variables. It was hypothesized that incentive would have a greater effect on gambling behavior when presented as a within-Ss variable than as a between-Ss variable. The results did not support the hypothesis.