The Gist is Sophisticated Yet Simple: Fuzzy-Trace Theory’s Developmental Approach to Individual Differences in Judgment and Decision Making

The Gist is Sophisticated Yet Simple: Fuzzy-Trace Theory’s Developmental Approach to Individual Differences in Judgment and Decision Making

Editor(s)

Maggie E. Toplak & Joshua Weller

Description

In this chapter, we review fuzzy-trace theory (FTT), a theory of reasoning and decision-making that differs from traditional models and posits that reliance on bottom-line gist processing is the basis for advanced cognition (Reyna, 2012). We discuss gist and verbatim, two distinct forms of mental representation that are encoded and retrieved independently and in parallel. Gist and verbatim representations exist on a hierarchy, from the most general, “fuzziest” representation to the most specific, detailed type of representation. We address individual differences in processing preference. FTT accounts for developmental differences in judgment and decision-making by explaining that both types of processing (bottom-line gist and precise verbatim) improve with age, but that ultimately adults rely mainly on gist processing to make decisions.

Title of Book

Individual Differences in Judgement and Decision-Making

ISBN

9781138640566

Publication Date

2016

Document Type

Book Chapter

Keywords

fuzzy-trace theory (FTT), decision-making, gist processing, verbatim processing

Disciplines

Cognitive Psychology

The Gist is Sophisticated Yet Simple: Fuzzy-Trace Theory’s Developmental Approach to Individual Differences in Judgment and Decision Making

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