A new study by Cornell researchers reveals that when people follow advice against their better judgment, they feel more responsible for bad outcomes than if they had made the decision alone.
Through five experiments, including an in-person lottery study and online trials with over 1,200 participants, Professors Kaitlin Woolley and Sunita Sah found that those who took poor advice blamed themselves more than their advisers. Ignoring instincts led to increased thoughts about better choices, amplifying feelings of control and regret.
The study suggests this effect extends beyond minor decisions to major life choices. Sah emphasized the importance of trusting one’s judgment, as following bad advice does not shield individuals from regret—it worsens it.
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