Predictors of Information Avoidance: When Does Ignorance Seem Most Blissful?

People frequently face unknown information that has the potential to threaten their views of themselves or others. Two studies investigated the predictors of information avoidance in the context of a romantic relationship (Study 1) and ratings of physical attractiveness (Study 2). Results revealed that compared to information seekers, information avoiders tended to expect greater benefits and fewer costs from the information, anticipate less regret over avoiding and more regret over seeking the information, and perceive greater control and coping ability. Avoiders and seekers did not differ in their expectations about the content of information. Finally, although avoiders and seekers differed in many of their information perceptions, only perceived benefits and anticipated regret over avoiding the information independently predicted avoidance decisions.