Laws & Patterns
Cognitive Bias

Endowment Effect

Users value what they own more than what they don't.

Definition

The Endowment Effect refers to a cognitive bias where users assign greater value to items they perceive as belonging to them. It's a psychological phenomenon that suggests ownership increases perceived value.

Do

  • Allow users to personalize or customize their experiences
  • Highlight the value of products or features users have chosen or purchased
  • Use the Endowment Effect to encourage emotional attachment and user loyalty

Avoid

  • Don't underestimate the value users place on their choices or possessions
  • Don't remove or change user-customized settings or features without clear communication and consent
  • Don't neglect opportunities to amplify the Endowment Effect through personalization

When to apply

  • When designing customizable features or products
  • When seeking user commitment or loyalty
  • When aiming to encourage user purchases

Related topics

Similar principles

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