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color photo headshot of Professor Batja Mesquita in front of a large bookshelf
Luminaries

Professor Batja Mesquita on Culture’s Role in Shaping Emotions and Accounting for Them in Research

March 8, 2024 Luminaries 0

Zoë Billington speaks with Professor Batja Mesquita, a pioneer of cultural psychology, about how culture shapes emotion, and how emotions act as powerful tools in relationships. After reading, you may be compelled to rethink if, when, and how to ask participants the very important question, “how did you feel about that?” …and even add on “and what did you do about that?” and “and how did you respond to how that made you feel?” […]

Schools of Thought

Life’s Hallways: The Role of Liminality in Consumer Decision-Making A new way of thinking about customer journeys

April 4, 2025 Schools of Thought 0

As consumers transition through life’s milestones—whether turning 50, becoming a parent, or retiring—they enter a liminal state, caught between who they were and who they are becoming. This fascinating article explores how these threshold experiences shape decision-making and behavior, often creating moments of uncertainty or hesitation. By understanding liminality, market researchers can uncover deeper consumer motivations, enhance customer journey mapping, and identify new opportunities to support consumers in these transitional phases. From hallways cluttered with old shoes to the design of luxury resorts, this piece reveals how physical and symbolic spaces impact identity shifts—and how brands can leverage these insights for more meaningful engagement. […]