Consumption Behavior Research Articles

Matching Is Best: Enhancing Effects of Future Orientation and Construal Level on Green Consumption

The 2024 Report on the Work of the Chinese Government promotes trade in consumer goods and green consumption. Therefore, better understanding is needed of consumer attitudes and behaviors toward environmental protection and sustainable development. The relationships among future orientation, construal level, and green consumption were explored using a delayed-effect design to conduct two surveys at one-month intervals with 160 participants (100 women and 60 men). The results showed that (1) future orientation positively predicted green consumption intention and green consumption behavior, and (2) the construal level significantly moderated the influence of future orientation on green consumption. Specifically, a high construal level and high future orientation predicted the greatest green consumption intention, green consumption behavior, and green consumption decisions, while at a high construal level, future orientation positively predicted green consumption intention and behavior, with a greater tendency to purchase environmentally friendly rather than hedonic products. At a low construal level, future orientation had no significant effect on green consumption intention, behavior, and intention to purchase environmentally friendly products. This study is important for promoting public awareness of the importance of green consumption and encouraging green consumption behaviors to achieve the goals of sustainable development and protect the environment and social well-being.

Stochastic Modeling of a Base Station in 5G Wireless Networks for Energy Efficiency

ABSTRACTThe potential benefits of 5G networks, such as faster data speeds and improved user experiences, come with a critical challenge—efficiently preserving energy in base stations (BSs). Addressing this challenge is crucial, necessitating a focus on maximizing the energy efficiency of these stations. BSs play a vital role in providing coverage and capacity by using different frequency bands adapting to diverse communication needs. The choice of a specific frequency band can impact network performance, data rates, coverage range, and signal propagation. This study emphasizes the crucial challenge of preserving energy in 5G BSs and underscores the significance of strategic frequency band selection for optimizing energy efficiency and network performance. For this, stochastic models are introduced for BSs, specifically the Markov and semi‐Markov models, which help choose frequency bands based on system traffic. Closed‐form solutions for steady‐state system size probabilities in these models are derived. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to assess power consumption in various scenarios. Furthermore, a comparison between analytical findings and simulation outcomes regarding power consumption is presented. The convergence of results in both methodologies emphasizes a significant level of agreement; that is, the introduced stochastic models provide insights and are validated by a close alignment between analytical and discrete‐event simulation outcomes. We have shown the behavior of power consumption with respect to three different distributions named deterministic, exponential, and hypo‐exponential. This research highlights the importance of strategic frequency band selection for 5G BSs to optimize energy efficiency and meet the demands of evolving communication networks.

Enhancing Fuel Economy in Heavy-Duty Trucks: A Contemporary Approach

This article reviews the effect of load-based speed control (LBSC) and gear-down protection (GDP) features on fuel consumption in heavy-duty trucks. These two electronic features, developed by Cummins Inc., are major developments in the field of engine management for optimum fuel economy. LBSC controls engine speed based on operating conditions, while GDP encourages operation in top gear for maximum fuel economy. Their mechanisms, benefits, and combined impact on fuel consumption and driver behavior are discussed. The discussion also involves challenges and future developments in this field. Research indicates that LBSC and GDP can offer significant improvements in fuel savings, up to 7% improvement in fuel efficiency. LBSC and GDP contribute to cutting fuel consumption and serve as virtual driver trainers, contributing to more efficient driving behavior. This article concludes that LBSC and GDP are important tools that help fleet managers reduce operation costs and environmental impact within the trucking industry.

The role of motivation and knowledge in promoting green consumer behavior in Saudi Arabia and Pakistan

This research explores the factors influencing consumers’ intentions and behaviors toward purchasing green products in two culturally and economically distinct countries, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Drawing on Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the study examines the roles of altruistic and egoistic motivations, alongside environmental knowledge, in shaping green consumer behavior. Altruistic motivation, driven by concern for societal well-being and environmental sustainability, is found to have a stronger impact on green purchase intention and behavior in both countries, particularly in Pakistan. Egoistic motivation, which focuses on personal benefits like health and cost savings, also contributes but with a lesser influence. The research employs a cross-sectional survey design, collecting data from 1000 respondents (500 from each country) using a stratified random sampling technique. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the relationships between variables and test the moderating effects of environmental knowledge. The results reveal that environmental knowledge significantly moderates the effect of both altruistic and egoistic motivations on green purchase intention, enhancing the likelihood of eco-friendly consumption. These findings underscore the importance of environmental education in promoting sustainable consumer behavior. The originality of this study lies in its comparative analysis of green consumerism in two distinct contexts and its exploration of motivational factors through the TPB framework. Practical implications suggest that policymakers and marketers can develop strategies that appeal to both altruistic and egoistic drivers while enhancing consumer knowledge of environmental issues. The study contributes to the literature by expanding TPB to include the moderating role of environmental knowledge in understanding green consumption behavior across diverse cultures.

Pet Ownership and Its Influence on Animal Welfare Attitudes and Consumption Intentions Among Chinese University Students

As global awareness of animal welfare continues to rise, it has become essential to understand the factors that shape individual attitudes and consumption behaviors related to animal welfare. This study empirically investigates how pet ownership influences attitudes towards animal welfare and related consumption intentions among Chinese university students. Findings demonstrate that students from pet-owning households exhibit significantly more favorable attitudes and behaviors concerning animal empathy, awareness of animal welfare, willingness to purchase animal welfare certified products, and the willingness to pay a premium for animal welfare labels. Pet ownership fosters emotional resonance, enhancing empathy and perceptions regarding animal welfare, and influences preferences for animal welfare certified products through simulated consumer choices. By applying propensity score matching (PSM) to mitigate endogeneity concerns, this research advances theoretical discussions surrounding animal welfare attitudes and consumption behaviors. Looking ahead, the promotion of animal welfare should involve coordinated efforts across educational institutions, policy frameworks, and market mechanisms to cultivate a broader understanding and adoption of animal welfare principles.

Breaking the habit: The impact of tobacco taxation on smoking behavior

Objective: This study investigates the influence of tobacco prices on consumption habits among 200 smokers in Lisbon, Portugal, focusing on generational preferences and perceptions of tobacco taxes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a quantitative approach. Participants were categorized by generational cohort, and data on tobacco consumption types, awareness of tobacco taxes, and opinions on tax increases were collected. Statistical analyses were used to explore relationships and predictors. Results: Findings reveal that 46.5% of participants favored heated tobacco, 37.0% smoked cigarettes, and 16.5% consumed other types like roll-your-own tobacco and electronic cigarettes. Significant generational differences were observed, with older cohorts predominantly smoking cigarettes (51.5%), while Generation Z showed a preference for heated tobacco (55.2%). Most smokers (79.5%) were aware of tobacco taxes, with diverse opinions on their purpose: revenue generation (44.0%), consumption reduction (44.5%), and indifference (11.5%). Despite this awareness, 60.5% reported no change in consumption habits due to tax increases. Conclusion: The study underscores the complexity of tobacco consumption behaviors influenced by price and generational factors. While heated tobacco gains popularity among younger smokers, traditional cigarettes remain prevalent among older cohorts. The findings highlight challenges in tobacco control policies, suggesting a need for comprehensive strategies integrating price measures with targeted educational and cessation interventions to effectively reduce tobacco use across different generations.

Retraction: Moderating role of policy incentive and perceived cost in relationship of environmental awareness and green consumption behavior.

Retraction: Moderating role of policy incentive and perceived cost in relationship of environmental awareness and green consumption behavior.

A multi-omics Mendelian randomization study identifies new therapeutic targets for alcohol use disorder and problem drinking.

Integrating proteomic and transcriptomic data with genetic architectures of problematic alcohol use and alcohol consumption behaviours can advance our understanding and help identify therapeutic targets. We conducted systematic screens using genome-wise association study data from ~3,500 cortical proteins (N = 722) and ~6,100 genes in 8 canonical brain cell types (N = 192) with 4 alcohol-related outcomes (N ≤ 537,349), identifying 217 cortical proteins and 255 cell-type genes associated with these behaviours, with 36 proteins and 37 cell-type genes being new. Although there was limited overlap between proteome and transcriptome targets, downstream neuroimaging revealed shared neurophysiological pathways. Colocalization with independent genome-wise association study data further prioritized 16 proteins, including CAB39L and NRBP1, and 12 cell-type genes, implicating mechanisms such as mTOR signalling. In addition, genes such as SAMHD1, VIPAS39, NUP160 and INO80E were identified as having favourable neuropsychiatric profiles. These findings provide insights into the genetic landscapes governing problematic alcohol use and alcohol consumption behaviours, highlighting promising therapeutic targets for future research.

Organic food consumption at casual and fine dining restaurants in the Uk: Restaurant managers’ perspectives

This research explores the phenomenon of organic food consumption in UK restaurants from restaurant managers’ perspectives. The research collected primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected from restaurant managers and secondary data was collected from restaurant websites, menus and social media platforms. Twelve semi-structured interviews were carried out with restaurant managers in London. Thematic analysis and content analysis were adopted to analyze the qualitative data. Findings: From the viewpoints of restaurant managers, there is a growing organic dining trend and rising consumer demand for organic. The trend towards organic food consumption in UK restaurants is influenced by a number of substantial factors. Consumer health concerns and prices were identified as significant factors influencing diners’ behavior towards organic food in restaurants. Media coverage of the benefits of organic food, including taste and quality, are key influencing factors. Restaurant operations including social media engagement, and availability of organic and labelling practices are important determinants. These factors were all identified as significant in terms of understanding diners’ organic consumption behavior in restaurants. Being one of the first attempts to explore the factors influencing organic consumption behavior in restaurants in the UK from the perspective of restaurant managers

An Overview of Malaysia’s Retail Organic Foods Market and Its Consumption Behavior

Growing global awareness of health and environmental sustainability has significantly increased the demand for organic foods, a trend gaining traction in Malaysia. This research provides a comprehensive overview of consumer consumption patterns and purchase intentions for organic foods in Malaysia’s retail sector, identifying key factors influencing their choices. The study examines Malaysia’s broader food retail landscape, focusing on the growing organic segment and its evolving consumption patterns. It also explores the organic food market, considering domestic production and the availability of imported goods that shape consumer choices and market growth. The study offers practical insights into consumer decision-making within the retail food market by examining consumption behavior, such as purchase intentions. The review uncovers critical insights into the organic food market, including its size, rising demand and consumption trends, government and retailer initiatives, and the demographic profiles of consumers who purchase or intend to purchase organic foods. These findings contribute to existing research on organic food consumption in Malaysia and provide valuable guidance for policymakers, government agencies, and retailers aiming to enhance the adoption of organic foods in the Malaysian retail sector.

Expenditure behaviour of pensioners: exploring differences between breadwinners and non-breadwinners

Abstract This article examines the expenditure behaviours of households headed by pensioners who are financially responsible for other household members. By analysing household-level consumption data from the Spanish Family Income Survey from 2018 to 2021, our findings reveal that pensioner-led households with dependents exhibit a 10.2 per cent reduction in total spending compared to pensioner-led households without dependents. Moreover, expenditure on durable and non-durable goods is lower by 10.4 and 8.8 per cent, respectively. We find no heterogeneous effects across income levels or with cohort-fixed effects.

Laser modulation of the FePS3 memristors.

Ternary two-dimensional (2D) material-based memristors have garnered significant attention in the fields of machine learning, neuromorphic computing due to their low power consumption, rapid learning, and synaptic-like behavior. Although such memristors often exhibit high ON/OFF ratios and exceptional pulse response characteristics, they have also to face some challenges concerning reusability and switching cycles, which arise from the filament instability issues.. Here we propose a modulation strategy to improve performance of 2D-material memristors with synaptic and flexible features. By laser-modulating few-layer FePS3, we induced the formation of conductive filaments, realized a major improvement in performance of the FePS3 memristors, achieving an on/off ratio of nearly 104, low power consumption at approximately 10-7 W of single switching operation, and maintaining stability even after over 500 cycles. The performance promotion has been ascribed to enhancement of conductive filament induced by laser-modulation. Furthermore, we have identified the effectiveness of our laser modulation under strain by building the high-performance flexible FePS3 memristor. Meanwhile, we discovered a novel strain-dominant erasure method for the flexible memristors. Our work confirms that laser modulation is a viable method for enhancing the performance of 2D material-based memristive devices.&#xD.

Will Public Health Emergencies Affect Compensatory Consumption Behavior? Evidence from Emotional Eating Perspective

Will Public Health Emergencies Affect Compensatory Consumption Behavior? Evidence from Emotional Eating Perspective

Analysis of the Impact of Financial Technology (Fintech) on the Needs of Generation Z in the Community Around UPI Purwakarta Campus

In the era of technological acceleration, technological advancements affect various aspects of life including the financial sector. Financial Technology (fintech) is an innovation that facilitates financial transactions and online loans, especially for generation Z. However, this convenience is also accompanied by risks such as fraud and consumptive behavior. This study aims to determine the impact and factors that affect Generation Z in financial technology in the community around the UPI Purwakarta campus. The research method used was a quantitative research method with a likert scale and distributed to 435 respondents. The data analysis techniques used are correlation analysis and simple regression analysis. While the hypothesis test uses the determination coefficient and the F test. The results of this study show that there is a significant (simultaneous) influence between the perception of Generation Z and the use of fintech applications and the magnitude of the influence is 31.1%.

The Impact of Anthropomorphism Strategy on Green Consumption Behavior

The Impact of Anthropomorphism Strategy on Green Consumption Behavior

Survival of the greenest: how evolutionary motives affect sustainability campaign message persuasiveness

Purpose The growing concern around sustainability highlights the need to change individual consumption behaviour. Using evolutionary theory, the purpose of this paper is to present a framework that demonstrates the process by which a consumer’s ultimate motives (thoughts, emotions, and perceptions that come from the evolutionary motives) impact sustainability campaign message persuasiveness (SCMP). Design/methodology/approach The framework was tested using partial least squares analysis with data from an online survey of 237 consumers. Findings Ultimate motives influence the SCMP through a mediating relationship, via a consumer’s sustainable consumption attitude and behaviour. The perceived sense of urgency around sustainability issues and the consumer’s connection to nature were also identified as key moderators that impact relationships between ultimate motives and consumers’ sustainability attitudes and behaviours. Research limitations/implications Future research could explore the impact of other factors, such as values, social norms, culture and governmental regulations, on individuals’ reactions to sustainability marketing. Practical implications The findings indicate the importance for managers to grasp the multifaceted nature of ultimate motives. By heightening particular ultimate motives, marketers can steer individuals towards sustainable attitudes and behaviours, consequently increasing the probability of favourable reactions to sustainable consumption messages. Originality/value This study addressed the two main limitations of research into SCMP by providing a theoretical grounding and focusing on the drivers of consumer behaviour, instead of campaign messaging aspects (e.g. framing). The empirical analysis, including identifying interactions between ultimate motives, supports the use of evolutionary theory to explain SCMP.

Do psychological costs matter? The mechanism of perceived value on green consumption behaviour

Green consumption is critical for achieving sustainable development goals. Many studies have focused on explaining why customers choose green consumption, but rarely have scholars considered the significant impacts of the psychological costs. This study conducted an online survey of 677 sampled individuals in China. A structural equation model (SEM) was adopted to explore how three types of psychological costs (i.e., stress, stigma, and autonomy) moderate the indirect relationships of perceived hedonic value and perceived utilitarian value with green consumption (i.e., green purchasing, recycling, and refusing to use disposable products) through the willingness to pay a green premium (WPGP). The results show that perceived values can promote green consumption behaviours by increasing WPGP. In addition, the indirect benefit of perceived hedonic value was shown to be stronger than that of perceived utilitarian value. However, the direct association of perceived hedonic value with green consumption was shown to be weaker (compared to perceived utilitarian value) when the influence of WPGP was excluded. Moreover, the indirect associations of perceived hedonic value with green consumption were stronger among individuals with high stress than those with low stress. In contrast, the indirect associations of perceived utilitarian value on green consumption were weaker for people with high stigma than those with low stigma. However, no evidence was found to show that autonomy can moderate the indirect relationships. These findings emphasize the different mechanisms of perceived hedonic value and perceived utilitarian value on green consumption, as well as the moderating role of psychological costs in understanding the relationship between perceived value and green consumption. Accordingly, this study suggests that policymakers should highlight the hedonic value rather than the utilitarian when encouraging a green lifestyle that involves a green premium. This is particularly true of situations with a high level of customers’ psychological costs. However, if there is no way to further increase people’s WPGP, then promoting the utilitarian value should be used to promote green consumption.

Sustainable Behavior of Generation Z Tourists’ Water Consumption

Tourism is one of the sectors with the highest demand for fresh water. Indicators suggest that water consumption by tourists is more than double that of residents. This phenomenon can be explained by tourists’ interest in engaging in unique experiences, which frequently entails putting sustainable practices aside. To mitigate the environmental impact of tourism and promote sustainable practices, the state of Quintana Roo has implemented the Sustainable Tourism Master Plan 2030, linking the government and companies to reduce environmental impacts by reducing tourists’ water consumption. Despite these efforts, the use of fresh water by tourists continues to be more than double that of residents. Consequently, tourists’ sustainable behavior is not significantly influenced by external factors, such as awareness campaigns, but depends more on the personal aspects of each individual. Generation Z stands out for being more aware of environmental problems and showing a willingness to modify their behavior towards more sustainable practices. The objective of this study was to explain the factors that influence the sustainable behavior related to water consumption among Generation Z tourists. The methodology employed was cross-sectional, with a quantitative approach, focused on attitude variables, subjective norms, and perceived control as determinants of sustainable behavior. This research is also considered nonexperimental, as there was no direct intervention with the subjects of the study, A non-probabilistic convenience sampling method was used to collect data directly from Generation Z tourists in the state of Quintana Roo, specifically from the destinations of Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Bacalar, and Cancún. These locations were selected due to their prominence as major tourist attractions within the data collection areas, without further differentiation or classification. Data were collected through a face-to-face survey conducted over a period of two months, with a total of 408 respondents participating, of whom 57.8% were male. The results revealed that subjective norms and perceived control influence sustainable water consumption behavior, while attitudes do not have a direct impact. These findings will provide governments and businesses with a basis to design more effective strategies that encourage sustainable behavior among Gen Z tourists, thus offering a starting point for understanding the behavior of other generations.

Compulsive Use of Social Media and Unrestrained Buying Behavior: Delineating the Role of Social Comparison, Fear of Missing Out and Self Esteem

Drawing on Theory of Compensatory Internet Use and Social Comparison Theory, the study explores how compulsive use of social media can lead to impulsive and compulsive buying behaviors among young adults in India. Findings reveal that compulsive social media use positively correlates with both impulsive and compulsive buying behaviors. This relationship is significant mediated by social comparison and FoMO, suggesting that users who frequently engage in social media are more likely to compare themselves to others and experience anxiety over missing out, thereby driving them towards unrestrained buying. Additionally, self-esteem negatively significant moderates these relationships, with individuals possessing high self-esteem less likely to succumb to impulsive and compulsive buying due to social comparison and FoMO. Research contributes significantly to digital marketing field by offering insights into the darker aspects of social media’s impact on consumer behaviour. Furthermore, study’s conceptual model integrates compensatory internet use theory and social comparison theory, providing a novel framework for future research on digital consumption behaviors.

Factors influencing participation of elderly population in mass drug administration for lymphatic filariasis: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe success of mass drug administration (MDA) for lymphatic filariasis (LF) elimination relies on achieving a participation rate of at least 65% within the endemic community. However, participation of sub-population in the community varies and a significant treatment gap among the elderly population, remains to be addressed. The present study explores the factors influencing the elderly participation in MDA and propose possible solutions to bridge the gap.MethodsA cross-sectional study of individuals aged 60 years and above was conducted from August to December 2023 in Yadgiri district of Karnataka, which is endemic for LF. The participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire, focusing on the perception about LF and MDA and drug consumption behaviours. STATA 14 software was used to analyse the data. We used a logistic regression model to determine the factors influencing drug consumption.ResultsThe study included 315 elderly individuals with a mean age (SD) of 67.4 (6.2) years. Although, 58.4% of them received the drugs during the last round of MDA in 2023, only 40.6% consumed it. The drug refusal rate was 19.4%. Fear of side effects (22.9%) was cited as the primary reason for not accepting the drugs. Weak perception of LF transmission risk (25.7%) and mistrust of drug safety (42.5%) were reported as reasons for non-compliance. Logistic regression identified significant associations, including residence (peri-urban: OR = 6.80), chronic disease (diabetes: OR = 2.89), trust on drug safety (OR = 16.27), and opinion of neighbours (OR = 5.35).ConclusionParticipation of elderly population in MDA was suboptimal (40.6%). Tailored interventions to improve consumption such as addressing misconceptions, building trust in MDA and effective monitoring and management of adverse events are vital to enhance their participation. The National Programme should have specific guidelines and strategies to address this issue to improve their participation in MDA for elimination of LF.