Are Identical Twins More Similar in Their Decision Making Styles Than Their Fraternal Counterparts?

Using a twin study paradigm, the genetic basis of decision making styles was explored using psychometric scales as well as actual choices. Study 1 compared monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins along the General Decision Making Scale (GDMS) and the Maximizing-Satisficing Inventory (MAX). MZ twins exhibited greater similarity than their DZ counterparts in terms of their overall GDMS scores, three of the GDMS subscales, and the MAX inventory. Study 2 measured key information processing metrics of actual choices that individuals made via a computerized informational display board. MZ twins are more similar to one another than DZ twins when it comes to the extent of information search prior to making a choice. There were no differences between the two groups of twins in terms of the selectivity and pattern of searches. The results of the two studies suggest that individuals' decision making styles are in part shaped by their genes.