Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Why good people do bad things

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that anticipating a potential ethical dilemma can lead to improved ethical behavior. Participants who identified similar past incidents and anticipated temptation were more likely to behave honestly than those who didn't.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 5, 2015

Preparing for natural disasters: What policies protect the vulnerable consumer?

A new study found that many residents in southern Spain do not take steps to prepare themselves against future disasters due to lack of information and financial resources. However, when the government is involved in awareness campaigns and housing subsidies, participants finally take steps toward disaster preparedness.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateMar 24, 2015

Concern over skin whitener marketing

A study by James Cook University highlights the growing demand for skin-whitening products in Australia, particularly among Indian women. The marketing of these products perpetuates social and professional success with lighter skin tone, raising moral concerns about cultural values and ethnic stereotypes.

How to sell the drugs of the future

A study by Concordia University marketing professor Lea Prevel Katsanis and her co-author found that knowledge of the benefits and risks of personalized medicine (PM) is crucial for patient acceptance. The research also highlights the importance of doctor-patient communication in PM adoption.

SourceConcordia University·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Marketing·DateJan 6, 2015

When judging art, men and women stand apart

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that men tend to focus on an artist's background and authenticity when evaluating art, while women prioritize the artwork itself. This finding has implications for the $64 billion art market and other industries where creativity is involved.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateOct 9, 2014

Mums trust mums on the net: Australian study

A new study by Queensland University of Technology found that mothers trust the opinions of other mothers when recommending products, making online communities a powerful marketing tool. The study suggests that fostering word-of-mouth in these environments is crucial for businesses looking to increase sales.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Web Based Communities·DateAug 20, 2014

The 92 percent clean plate club

A new study by Cornell University reveals that the average adult eats 92% of whatever they put on their plate, with similar results in eight developed countries. In contrast, children under 18 years old only eat 59% of what they serve themselves, likely due to uncertainty about food preferences.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateJul 22, 2014

Snobby staff can boost luxury retail sales

Researchers at the University of British Columbia found that consumers who experience rudeness from sales staff are more likely to purchase and wear luxury brands. The study suggests that a 'snobbish' attitude is beneficial for high-end retailers, but only if the salesperson appears authentic.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 29, 2014

Small business owners not always worried about being treated fairly, researcher finds

A study by University of Missouri researchers found that small retailers are less concerned about being treated fairly by suppliers than other factors like cash flow and company survival. The research team surveyed businesses in 10 culturally diverse countries, revealing a significant variation in the importance placed on fairness.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of International Marketing·DateApr 24, 2014

Ask yourself: Will you help the environment?

A Concordia University study found that consumers are more likely to buy eco-friendly products if they predict their own sustainable shopping behavior and feel observed. The study also discovered that this effect is stronger for individuals who define themselves based on social ties and peer opinions.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateApr 22, 2014

Newlyweds, be careful what you wish for

A statistical analysis of online wedding registries reveals that gift givers prioritize either social benefits or saving money, resulting in a bimodal distribution of price preferences. The study provides insights into the psychology behind wedding gift giving and its potential impact on marketing strategies.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing·DateApr 17, 2014