CONSUMER PROTECTION, EDUCATION AND INFORMATION: A CONSUMER INCENTIVES PERSPECTIVE

Research evidence concerning product characteristics, consumer characteristics and product purchase situations is examined. Assumptions underlying consumer policy strategies directed at enhancing the ability of consumers to protect themselves and those strategies aimed at product quality control are analyzed in light of the evidence. Alternative policy strategies are analyzed for consumer incentives and with respect to product characteristics, consumer characteristics and product purchase situations. Recommendations regarding consumer protection policy strategies and for research concerning alternative policy strategies are provided. Illustrative policy strategies are included. Copyright 1983 by The Policy Studies Organization.

THE CONSUMER INFORMATION OVERLOAD CONTROVERSY AND PUBLIC POLICY

It is widely believed that providing consumers with more product information produces "overload" and leads to confusion and poorer quality consumer decisions. The existence of a consumer information overload phenomenon has been used by marketers and others to argue against regulations and legislation mandating additional consumer information provision. The belief that a consumer information overload phenomenon exists is based largely on misinterpretations of research findings. The present paper reviews the consumer information overload research literature and concludes that existing research data support the contention that provision of more information, rather than producing overload, actually improves consumer decision making. Implications of the information overload research controversy for consumer policy makers are discussed. Copyright 1983 by The Policy Studies Organization.