Temporal constraints on decision making: A field test investigating career selection decisions

This study investigates temporal constraints on decision-making. Specifically, we investigate the influence of timing and duration of information exposure on decision making in an archival study using medical residents’ rotation schedules. Results indicate that individuals were more likely to select career options appearing earlier and more often in their schedule, even when controlling for attributes of these options. Additionally, there was a significant interaction between timing and duration of exposure. Individuals were more likely to select later appearing career options if they appeared often. The results illustrate that a schedule over which an individual has limited control can influence a highly consequential decisions. Implications to managerial decision-making are discussed.