Study Reveals Repetition Bias in Human Decision-Making Processes

In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at TUD Dresden University of Technology, evidence has emerged indicating that humans often repeat familiar actions when making sequential decisions, even when better alternatives are available. This phenomenon, termed 'repetition bias,' raises significant implications for understanding decision-making processes and has potential applications in shaping public policies aimed at improving individual and societal outcomes.

The study, published in the journal Communications Psychology on July 2, 2025, explores how biases—systematic tendencies in thought or behavior—can affect decision-making, often without the individual’s awareness. According to Eric Legler, a lead researcher and expert in behavioral science, “Humans tend to repeat action sequences that have led to reward. Recent computational models suggest that action selection can also be biased by how often an action or sequence of actions was repeated before, independent of rewards.” This perspective challenges the traditional view that individuals always seek to maximize rewards in their decision-making processes.

To investigate this phenomenon, Legler, alongside Dario Cuevas Rivera and other colleagues, conducted an experiment involving 70 participants who played a computer-based Pacman-style game. Participants were tasked with collecting colored circles, each associated with differing point values, all while aiming to achieve a target score. The researchers meticulously recorded the action sequences taken by participants, noting instances of repeated actions.

The computational modeling applied to the data revealed that decisions made by participants were influenced not just by the anticipated rewards but also by a tendency to replicate familiar action sequences. “Through computational modeling of choices, we demonstrate both the learning and influence of a repetition bias on human value-based decisions,” the researchers stated. This dual influence underscores the complexity of human decision-making and suggests that habitual patterns can sometimes override rational assessment of available options.

Significantly, the study found marked individual differences in the strength of the repetition bias, with some participants displaying a pronounced tendency to revert to familiar actions. This variability hints at the necessity for tailored interventions in decision-making scenarios, especially in environments where optimal choices are critical.

The implications of this research extend beyond academic interest; they offer insights that can inform public policies and interventions designed to assist individuals in making better decisions. For instance, understanding how repetition bias operates could lead to the development of strategies that encourage individuals to break free from habitual choices that may not serve their best interests.

This study aligns with a growing body of literature examining the intersection of cognitive psychology and behavioral economics. According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Economics at Harvard University, and author of a 2023 study published in the Journal of Economic Behavior, “Identifying and mitigating biases in decision-making is crucial for enhancing individual welfare and improving public policy outcomes.”

The research conducted by Legler and his team is poised to inspire further inquiries into decision-making biases and their broader societal impacts. Future studies may explore the mechanisms underlying repetition bias and its interaction with other cognitive processes, paving the way for enhanced decision-making frameworks in both personal and professional contexts.

In conclusion, the findings from TUD Dresden University illuminate the intricate dynamics of human decision-making, emphasizing the need for continued research and practical applications. As behavioral scientists delve deeper into these cognitive patterns, the potential to foster better decision-making practices across diverse sectors may become increasingly attainable.