Risk Aversion and Emotions

We consider the relationship between emotions and decision-making under risk. Specifically, we examine the emotional correlates of risk-averse decisions. In our experiment, individuals' facial expressions are monitored with face reading software, as they are presented with risky lotteries. We then correlate these facial expressions with subsequent decisions in risky choice tasks. We find that a more positive emotional state is positively correlated with greater risk taking. The strength of a number of emotions, including fear, happiness, anger and surprise, is positively correlated with risk aversion.