Centrality preferences in choices among similar options

Three explanations were explored for the finding that people prefer the mid dle option rather than the extremes when choosing from an array of similar options. In Study 1, 68% chose the middle item from a set of three highligh ters and three surveys, whereas 32% chose an item from either end, p < .000 1. In Study 2, 71% selected the middle chair from a row of three chairs tha t were either all empty, or had a backpack occupying either one of the two end chairs, p < .0001. These results support a minimal mental effort princi ple rather than a preference for symmetry rule. In Study 3, 54.2% recalled more graphic items from the center poster of a 3-poster collage, whereas 31 .3% and 14.5% recalled more items from the left and right posters, respecti vely, p < .004. These findings lend additional support to a focus of attent ion explanation.