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Discussion Paper Details

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Title: Reference-Dependent Preferences and Loss Aversion: A Discrete Choice Experiment In the Health-Care Sector

Author(s): Shoshana Neuman and Einat Neuman

Publication Date: December 2007

Keyword(s): attributes, Discrete Choice Experiment, loss aversion, maternity-wards, preferences and reference-dependence

Programme Area(s): Labour Economics

Abstract: A Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) in the health-care sector is used to test the loss aversion theory that is derived from reference-dependent preferences: The absolute subjective value of a deviation from a reference point is generally greater when the deviation represents a loss than when the same-sized change is perceived as a gain. As far as is known, this paper is the first to use a DCE to test the loss aversion theory. A DCE appears to be a highly suitable tool for this testing because it estimates the marginal valuations of attributes, based on deviations from a reference point (a constant scenario). Moreover, loss aversion can be examined for each attribute separately. A DCE can also be applied to non-traded goods with non-tangible attributes. A health-care event is used for empirical illustration: The loss aversion theory is tested within the context of preference structures for maternity-ward attributes, estimated using data entailing 3850 observations from a sample of 542 women who recently gave birth. Seven hypotheses are presented and tested. Overall, significant support for behavioural loss aversion theories was found.

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Bibliographic Reference

Neuman, S and Neuman, E. 2007. 'Reference-Dependent Preferences and Loss Aversion: A Discrete Choice Experiment In the Health-Care Sector'. London, Centre for Economic Policy Research. https://cepr.org/active/publications/discussion_papers/dp.php?dpno=6616