Emotion expression, decision-making and well-being

Abstract

Purpose – This chapter discusses the role of emotion expression in decision-making. To understand connections between emotion and decision it is helpful first to differentiate between emotion experience and emotion expression. Understanding how emotion expression influences decision-making is important as a practical matter. However, in contrast to emotion experience, economic research has paid little attention to the significance of emotion expression in decision-making.

Approach – I review recent studies on emotion expression, paying specific attention to possible connections between emotion expression, punishment, fair economic exchange, and well-being.

Practical implications – In contrast to emotions, which are typically difficult to control, I suggest that opportunities for emotion expression can feasibly be manipulated through appropriately designed policies. I further suggest that this approach may have the ability to positively affect well-being and economic outcomes.

Value of the chapter – The chapter provides new perspectives on how policy-makers can benefit by understanding the effect of emotion expression in decision-making. The chapter also suggests future research to improve our understanding of emotion expression.

Citation

Xiao, E. (2008), "Emotion expression, decision-making and well-being", Houser, D. and McCabe, K. (Ed.) Neuroeconomics (Advances in Health Economics and Health Services Research, Vol. 20), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 161-178. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0731-2199(08)20007-5