Possessions and Life Experiences of University Students from the Perspective of Behavioral Economics

Abstract

Background: Economic decision-making is not purely rational or profit-driven, but shaped by a combination of objective information, personal beliefs, experiences, and social context. Modern economic thought recognizes that individuals construct decisions through both logical calculations and subjective perceptions, where values and context play an important role alongside rational analysis. Objective: To analyze the thinking of students at the Veracruzana University in Mexico, regarding their perception of having resources in contexts of economic inequality, in order to recognize their level of acceptance of their current life circumstances, demonstrating that material dependencies are related to the generation of life expectations. Methodological Design: This study focused on analyzing articles, reports, and blogs on the theory of rational agent behavior. This theory helps to understand how people are expected to respond in the future and highlights the importance of personal feelings in the decisions they make. The analysis investigated the characteristics of consumers that influence rational processes and expectations through a field study using a data collection instrument (survey) administered on-site during the last two months of 2025. The results were descriptive and suggestive regarding the understanding of expectations among specific groups. Results: The study found that university students—particularly younger generations—are sensitive to life experiences and possessions as a means of achievement. From a cognitive perspective, their experience centered on personal life processes influences the generation of expectations based on past experiences. Limitations of the Research: Insufficient recent information demonstrating systematized rational thought processes related to life perceptions. Findings: Cognitive processes are fundamental to understanding decision-making within the population. Being economically dependent can foster feelings of vulnerability and dissatisfaction with one's personal experiences. However, it is also related to a sense of having made better decisions, demonstrating that family or parental support as the source of resources can contribute to a better-lived life.