Solid Possessions: How Objects Reduce Psychological Distance to Intangible Meanings
Type
conference paper
Date Issued
2013-06-04
Author(s)
Abstract
Consumers frequently rely on objects (i.e., their possessions) for building a sense of self or for "extending" their selves. In this research, we examine if and to what extent the tangibility of objects is related to their self-extending function. Specifically, we argue that objects that signify an intangible meaning may decrease the psychological distance between the self and the meaning. Two studies provide converging support for this prediction. Study 2 further shows that consumers develop a greater attachment to an object that signifies a meaning which is (1) not directly experienceable and (2) personally relevant to them.
Language
English
Keywords
Possessions
Extended Self
Tangibility
Psychological Distance
Semiotics
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
HSG Profile Area
SoM - Business Innovation
Refereed
Yes
Book title
Lost in Translation - Marketing in an Interconnected World
Publisher
EMAC European Marketing Academy
Publisher place
Brüssel
Start page
7
Event Title
42nd European Marketing Academy (EMAC) Annual Conference
Event Location
Istanbul
Event Date
04.-07.06.2013
Subject(s)
Eprints ID
223508