Time Perspective and Decision-Making: A Study on Decisional Patterns in Argentinian Adults

Abstract

The first aim of this study was to adapt the MDMQ to Argentinian Spanish and to collect evidence of its validity and reliability; the second was to determine if time perspectives were adequate predictors of decisionmaking styles. A first sample of 536 participants served in the validation process; a second sample of 209 individuals who completed the mdmq and the Brief Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI) was used to conduct descriptive-correlational and regression analyses. Confirmatory factor analysis corroborated a four-factor model with adequate internal consistency for each subscale. Regression analyses showed that future time perspective positively predicted the display of higher vigilant coping patterns —adaptive and rational decision-making style—. Meanwhile, less futuretime- oriented people were more likely to engage in defensive avoidance mechanisms to reach a decision. Past-negative and present-fatalistic time perspectives were positive predictors of non-vigilant decisionmaking style. It indicates that individuals with an aversive vision over their past experiences and present situation are more likely to engage in emotionally based and avoidant decision-making patterns. These findings support the reliability and construct-related validity of the MDMQ for assessing decision-making styles among Argentinian individuals and set a step for conducting more in-depth research in the field of decisionmaking and time perspective.