Vol. 2007 No. 1 (2007)

View Issue TOC

Behavioural Economics in African Markets: Insights for Consumer Protection in Seychelles

Kerine Vengilasamy, Department of Advanced Studies, Seychelles Environmental Research Centre
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18857255
Published: January 4, 2007

Abstract

Behavioural Economics has gained traction as a theoretical framework for understanding consumer behaviour in various markets around the world, including African ones. This field explores how individuals make decisions under conditions of limited information or time pressure, which often deviate from predictions based on traditional economic models. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to gather detailed insights into consumer decision-making processes regarding financial transactions in Seychelles. Focus groups were conducted among key stakeholders including consumers, regulators, and industry practitioners. The analysis revealed a significant proportion (60%) of respondents exhibited heuristics-driven decision-making when evaluating insurance policies, often leading to overestimation of coverage benefits and underestimation of premiums. This finding highlights the need for clearer disclosure standards in policy documents. This study underscores the importance of incorporating Behavioural Economics into consumer protection strategies in Seychelles, particularly in financial services where decision-making is heavily influenced by cognitive biases and information asymmetry. Recommendations include developing tailored educational materials that address common behavioural pitfalls such as overconfidence bias and loss aversion, alongside regulatory reforms aimed at improving transparency and reducing exploitation of consumer vulnerabilities.

Full Text:

Read the Full Article

The HTML galley is loaded below for inline reading and better discovery.

How to Cite

Kerine Vengilasamy (2007). Behavioural Economics in African Markets: Insights for Consumer Protection in Seychelles. African Journal of Human Resource Management, Vol. 2007 No. 1 (2007). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18857255

Keywords

African geographyBehavioural economicsConsumer psychologyMarket microstructureProspect theorySocial normsTrust studies

Research Snapshot

Desktop reading view
Language
EN
Formats
HTML + PDF
Publication Track
Vol. 2007 No. 1 (2007)
Current Journal
African Journal of Human Resource Management

References