Communicating Resource Scarcity and Interpersonal Connection

Consumers often cite insufficient time or money as an excuse for rejecting social invitations. We explore the effectiveness of these excuses in preserving interpersonal relationships. Six studies – including perceptions of couples planning their wedding – demonstrate that using time scarcity as an excuse (e.g., “I don’t have time”) is less effective than using money scarcity as an excuse (e.g., “I don’t have money”). These effects are driven by...