EXPERIENCE PUBLICATIONS

The Experiential Aspects of Consumption: Consumer Fantasies, Feelings, and Fun

Publication year
1982
Disciplines
KEYWORDS
Consumer behavior, Consumer experience, Experiential consumption
DOI Link
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Abstract

This paper argues for the recognition of important experiential aspects of consumption. Specifically, a general framework is constructed to represent typical consumer behavior variables. Based on this paradigm, the prevailing information processing model is contrasted with an experiential view that focuses on the symbolic, hedonic, and esthetic nature of consumption. This view regards the consumption experience as a phenomenon directed toward the pursuit of fantasies, feelings, and fun.

Why is this publication important in experience research?

An early, influential publication that changed scientific understanding of consumer behavior. While earlier understanding of consumption was based on utilitarian value, Holbrook & Hirschman turned attention towards hedonistic values. The model of Cognition-Affect-Behavior sparked voluminous further models on experiential consumption, which has impacted experience research also in other disciplines.