As a situational influence, antecedent states include:
Multiple Choice
the amount of cash on hand.
the purpose of the purchase.
the time of day.
other people present.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Correct Answer: the amount of cash on hand
Explanation:
Situational influences are external conditions or circumstances that can affect a consumer’s behavior during the decision-making process. One type of situational influence is antecedent states, which are temporary conditions or moods that consumers experience before engaging in a purchase. These states differ from long-term traits or characteristics because they are transient and highly specific to the moment.
Antecedent states include:
- Mood or emotional state: A consumer’s mood (e.g., happy, anxious, or frustrated) can significantly impact how they perceive products or services and their willingness to make a purchase.
- Physiological state: Factors like hunger, fatigue, or physical comfort can influence buying decisions.
- The amount of cash on hand: This refers to the consumer’s available financial resources, such as cash, credit, or other immediate means of payment. For example, someone with limited cash may prioritize budget-friendly options or avoid unnecessary purchases entirely, while a person with abundant cash on hand may be more likely to indulge in discretionary spending.
Why “amount of cash on hand” is correct:
This directly represents a temporary condition that influences purchasing decisions. It can dictate the consumer’s ability to act on their desire to buy a product, as well as their willingness to consider alternatives.
The other options provided do not fall under antecedent states because:
- The purpose of the purchase relates to the functional or intended goal (not a transient state).
- The time of day is part of a temporal factor.
- Other people present falls under social situational influences, not antecedent states.
In summary, “the amount of cash on hand” is a situational influence that reflects a temporary condition, making it a key component of antecedent states.