Welcome to the Applied Social Psychology and Consumer Research Group!

Applied Social Psychology is the study of social psychological principles and concepts to address real-world problems and improve the quality of human life. Consumer Research studies the perception, motivation, social cognition, and behavior of consumers. 

In this context, our work sheds light on how social and non-social environments shape individual experiences, behaviors, and beliefs, and provides insights that can inform policy and practice across multiple sectors. In particular, we aim to contribute to a better understanding of how consumers respond to major societal challenges such as the current economic development, the demand for sustainable and healthy consumption, and the digital transformation.
Our research is therefore important for a thorough understanding of how individuals navigate the digital world and make choices about sustainable and healthy consumption. 

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 News

05.06.2026
 

Why do people still believe that unhealthy food tastes better?

A new study shows that our food beliefs may persist not because they are true, but because we repeatedly choose experiences that reinforce them. In...

05.06.2026
 

Last week, DIAMOND partners met in Porto to strengthen collaboration with grassroots organizations and discuss how our research on employability can...

24.05.2026
 

 

A new handbook co-edited by Arnd Florack examines the interplay of communication and social cognition across a wide range of social, cognitive, and...

18.05.2026
 

How and why do people lie? A recent ORF “Dok 1” documentary explores the mechanisms behind deception – featuring insights from Lisa Löffler.

10.05.2026
 

Arnd Florack on Ö1’s Dimensionen: “Network Without Closeness”

Can digital connection replace real social closeness? An upcoming episode of Dimensionen on Ö1 (ORF) explores the “loneliness economy” – from...

25.03.2026
 

Researchers from across Europe gathered in Vienna for an international workshop on economic and consumer psychology, exchanging ideas on ongoing...