Mind the Gap: Stated versus Revealed Donations and the Differential Role of Behavioral Factors

J. A. Bouma and M. J. Koetse

Abstract

This paper uses a contingent valuation study and an actual donation request to assess the impact of behavioral factors on hypothetical bias in stated willingness-to-pay estimates. Our findings indicate that both the number of respondents willing to donate and the amount they are willing to donate differ substantially between treatments. Behavioral factors play a substantial and significant role; in particular, the extent of warm glow derived from giving and expectations about other people’s behavior increase the extent of hypothetical bias in stated willingness-to-pay estimates. We suggest ways in which this may be incorporated in future contingent valuation study design. (JEL Q51)

View Full Text

This article requires a subscription to view the full text. If you have a subscription you may use the login form below to view the article. Access to this article can also be purchased.

Purchase access

You may purchase access to this article. This will require you to create an account if you don't already have one.