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What is the IKEA effect?

PsychologyLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

The IKEA effect is our tendency to value things more when we've helped build them ourselves. Named after the flat-pack furniture, it explains why we cherish our own creations — and overvalue them — even when they're objectively no better.

Key things to understand

  1. We value things more when we help make them.
  2. Effort and ownership boost perceived worth.
  3. Named after assembling IKEA furniture.
  4. It can make us overvalue our own creations.

People also ask

What is the IKEA effect?
The tendency to place higher value on things we partly created or assembled ourselves.
Why does the IKEA effect happen?
Effort and a sense of ownership make us feel more attached to and proud of what we build.
How is the IKEA effect used in marketing?
Letting customers customize or assemble products increases attachment and willingness to pay.