Duration of Restrictions Influences Information Processing: The Role of Perception of Control
(A2019-6077)

AUTHORS

Sadaf Mokarram Dorri, Bocconi University; Aulona Ulqinaku, Leeds University Business School; Gülen Sarial-Abi, Bocconi University

KEYWORDS

Restrictions; Information processing; Perception of control

ABSTRACT

Many people live with restrictions in their daily life. This paper investigates how the duration of these restrictions influences information processing. Using three studies in the field, we predict and demonstrate that people with permanent restrictions have a more expansive mind- set and, consequently, process information more abstractly than those with temporary restrictions. Furthermore, we identify a theoretically derived mediator: perception of control. Those with permanent restrictions perceive more control than those with temporary restrictions, which explains their more expansive mind-set.