Psychology
What is The IKEA effect?
The IKEA effect is our tendency to value things more when we've helped build them ourselves. Named after the flat-pack furniture, it explains why we cherish our own creations — and overvalue them — even when they're objectively no better.
See it, don’t just read it.
Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains the ikea effect.
Key things to understand
- 1We value things more when we help make them.
- 2Effort and ownership boost perceived worth.
- 3Named after assembling IKEA furniture.
- 4It can make us overvalue our own creations.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the IKEA effect?
- The tendency to place higher value on things we partly created or assembled ourselves.
- Why does the IKEA effect happen?
- Effort and a sense of ownership make us feel more attached to and proud of what we build.
- How is the IKEA effect used in marketing?
- Letting customers customize or assemble products increases attachment and willingness to pay.