Subjective optimality in finite sequential decision-making
Fig 6
Subjective optimality model versus an alternative Regret model.
As depicted in Fig I in S1 File, there are potential effects of past stimuli values on the subsequent choice. (A) To more directly examine potential effects of “regret”, individuals accept less likely the stimuli values that are above the optimal threshold but below a value which they have previously rejected, decision thresholds simulated with a regret model are compared against the optimal decision model and empirical data. Error bars indicate s.e.m. (B) Effects of past stimuli values on the current decision were examined by applying the logistic regression analyses using the simulated data from the regret model. The regret model predicts meaningful deviation from the optimal model in the 3rd and 4th opportunities, and the deviation can be attributed to the negative weight on the preceding opportunities. However, the regret model, inconsistent with the observed pattern from the empirical data (Fig I in S1 File), predicts that the value in the earlier opportunities will affect the current decision more than the value in the recent past. Error bars indicate s.e.m.