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The buying motives of consumer behavior are the underlying reasons or psychological drivers that influence why a
consumer decides to purchase a particular product or service. These motives can be broadly classified into different
categories based on emotional, rational, and social factors.
In the buying process, consumers can take on different roles. These roles often overlap and vary depending on the
situation. The key roles are:
1. Initiator The person who first suggests or identifies the need for a product or service.
o Example: A child asking for a new video game.
2. Influencer The person who influences the decision by providing information, opinions, or advice.
o Example: A friend recommending a particular smartphone brand.
3. Decider The person who makes the final decision about what to buy and from where.
o Example: A parent deciding which car to purchase for the family.
4. Buyer The person who physically makes the purchase.
o Example: A person who goes to the store or orders online.
5. User The person who actually uses the product or service.
o Example: A student using a laptop purchased by their parents.
6. Gatekeeper The person who controls the flow of information or access to decision-makers.
o Example: A receptionist filtering sales calls or a parent deciding what advertisements their child
sees.
Customer Refers to the person or entity that purchases the product or service.
They may or may not be the end user.
Example: A parent buying a chocolate bar for their child is the customer.
Key Difference: A consumer uses the product, while a customer buys it.
Sometimes, the consumer and customer can be the same person (e.g., someone buying a sandwich and eating it
themselves).
User The person or entity who actually uses or consumes the product or service.
They may or may not have been involved in the purchasing decision.
Example: The child playing with the toy bought by the parent.
A potential consumer refers to an individual or group who has the potential to purchase a product or service in the
future but has not yet made a purchase. They may show interest in the product, meet the target market's criteria, or
exhibit behaviors that suggest they could become buyers.
Interest or Awareness – They are aware of the product or service and may show interest.
Need or Desire – They have a need or desire that the product or service can fulfill.
Ability to Purchase – They have the means or financial capability to buy, though they may not have done so yet.
Intent to Buy – They might be considering the product but haven’t made a decision to purchase yet.
j) What do you mean by societal concepts of consumer?
a)
What do you mean by consumer behaviors model?
The Nicosia Model was developed by Francesco Nicosia in 1966. It is one of the earliest models to focus
on the relationship between the company and the consumer. This model highlights how
communication from a business triggers responses and decision-making processes in the consumer. The
model consists of four main stages
psychoanalytical model
• Unconscious Mind – Consumer behavior is influenced by hidden desires and emotions.
• Id, Ego, Superego – Id drives impulse purchases, Ego balances desires with reality, and
Superego reflects moral standards.
b) •What
Emotional different– types
are the Appeal Consumers oftenhabits
of buying makeofdecisions
consumer?based on emotions, not logic.
•• Complex Buying Behavior – – Involves high-involvement decisions, like buying a car or
•
house. –
• Dissonance-Reducing Buying Behavior – High-involvement purchases with post-purchase
anxiety, like electronics.
• Habitual Buying Behavior – Routine, low-involvement purchases, like buying the same
toothpaste.
• Variety-Seeking Buying Behavior – Consumers switch products for variety, like changing
snack brands.
• Impulse Buying Behavior – Unplanned, spontaneous purchases driven by emotions or
offers.
• Loyalty-Based Buying Behavior – Consistent purchases from the same brand due to trust or
satisfaction.
c) What do you mean attitude ?
Attitude refers to a consumer's consistent feelings, beliefs, and evaluations toward a product, brand, or service. It
reflects how a person feels about something and influences their behavior, including buying decisions.
1. Cognitive – The beliefs and thoughts a person has about a product (e.g., "This brand is high quality").
2. Affective – The emotional response or feelings a person has toward a product (e.g., "I love this brand").
3. Behavioral – The actions or intentions to act in a certain way toward the product (e.g., "I will buy this
brand again").
UNIT-III
S.No. Question
a) What do you mean by perception?
Perception refers to the process by which consumers organize and interpret information from their environment
to form an understanding or opinion about a product, brand, or service. It is how an individual perceives or
interprets the world around them based on their sensory experiences (sight, sound, taste, etc.) and prior
knowledge.
b) What are the different types of attitude?
• Positive Attitude – Favorable feelings toward a product or brand (e.g., loyal customers).
• Negative Attitude – Unfavorable feelings, often due to past bad experiences.
• Neutral Attitude – Indifference or no strong opinion about a product or brand.
• Indifferent Attitude – Lack of interest or concern toward the product or brand.
• Ambivalent Attitude – Mixed or conflicting feelings about a product or brand.
• Inconsistent Attitude – Contradictory beliefs or behaviors, making opinions unpredictable.
c) Gives the importance of personality.
Personality refers to the unique set of psychological traits and characteristics that influence how an individual
thinks, feels, and behaves. In consumer behavior, understanding personality is important because it helps
businesses predict consumer preferences, tailor marketing strategies, and develop products that align with
different personality types.
• Affects Buying Choices – Personality influences preferences.
• Helps in Brand Positioning – Targeting specific personality traits.
• Fosters Loyalty – Loyal consumers repeat purchases.
• Enables Targeted Marketing – Personalized campaigns based on personality.
• Guides Product Development – Creating products for specific personality needs.
• Shapes Perception – Personality impacts brand views.
d) What do you mean by self concepts?
Self-concept refers to the way an individual perceives and understands themselves, including their beliefs,
feelings, and thoughts about their identity. It is how people see themselves and how they think others perceive
them. Self-concept influences behavior, choices, and preferences, including consumer behavior.
Importance: Self-concept influences buying decisions, brand loyalty, and marketing strategies.
e) Define ‘learning.
Learning refers to the process through which individuals acquire knowledge, skills, attitudes, or behaviors
through experience, study, or teaching. In consumer behavior, learning is how consumers change their attitudes
or behaviors based on their experiences with products, brands, or services.
• Classical Conditioning – Learning through association (e.g., positive feelings linked with a brand).
• Operant Conditioning – Learning through rewards and punishments (e.g., loyalty programs).
• Cognitive Learning – Learning through understanding and problem-solving (e.g., reading reviews before
buying).
f) What are the objectives of social marketing?
Social marketing aims to influence behaviors that benefit individuals and society as a whole, often by promoting
social good, public health, or environmental sustainability. The main objectives of social marketing are:
A reference group is a group of people that influences an individual's attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and purchasing
decisions. These groups serve as a point of comparison for individuals, shaping their perceptions and decisions
either directly or indirectly.
1. Primary Reference Group – Close groups like family and friends that directly influence behavior.
2. Secondary Reference Group – Distant groups like professional associations that influence decisions.
3. Aspirational Reference Group – Groups individuals aspire to be part of (e.g., celebrities).
4. Dissociative Reference Group – Groups individuals want to avoid association with.
Importance: Reference groups influence consumer behavior and help marketers target specific audiences.
UNIT-IV
S.No. Question
a) What do you mean by reference group?
A reference group is a group of people that influences an individual’s attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. These
groups act as a point of comparison for individuals, shaping their choices, values, and purchasing decisions.
• Primary – Close groups (family, friends) with direct influence.
• Secondary – Larger groups (professional organizations) with indirect influence.
• Aspirational – Groups individuals admire and want to be part of.
• Dissociative – Groups individuals want to avoid association with.
b) What do you mean by social class?
Social class refers to a group of people within a society who share similar economic, social, and cultural status.
It is typically determined by factors like income, education, occupation, and lifestyle. Social class influences
consumer behavior, preferences, and purchasing patterns.
• Economic Status – Based on income and wealth, influencing spending power.
• Education – Higher education levels often lead to different product preferences.
• Occupation – Type of job influences purchasing decisions.
• Lifestyle – Tastes and preferences shaped by social class (e.g., luxury vs. practical products).
c) What do you mean by consumer satisfaction?
Consumer satisfaction refers to the degree to which a consumer feels that their expectations of a product or
service have been met or exceeded after purchasing and using it. It reflects the overall happiness or
contentment a consumer has with their buying experience.
• Expectation vs. Reality – Satisfaction when expectations are met or exceeded.
• Product Quality – High-quality products lead to higher satisfaction.
• Customer Service – Positive interactions with staff enhance satisfaction.
• Value for Money – Feeling of receiving good value for the price paid
d) Write four feature of Indian consumer?
• Price Sensitivity Indian consumers are highly price-conscious and often seek value for money.
• Preference for Local Brands There is a strong inclination toward local products, especially when they offer
good quality at affordable prices.
• Cultural Influence Consumer behavior is influenced by cultural values, traditions, and festivals, impacting
purchasing decisions.
• Technologically Evolving Indian consumers are increasingly adopting digital platforms for shopping, but a
significant portion still values in-store shopping experiences.
• Problem Recognition The consumer realizes a need or problem (e.g., running out of toothpaste).
• Information Search The consumer looks for information about products or services to solve the problem
(e.g., researching brands online).
• Evaluation of Alternatives The consumer compares different options based on features, price, and reviews.
• Purchase Decision The consumer selects and buys the product or service that best meets their needs.
• Post-Purchase Behavior The consumer evaluates their satisfaction with the purchase, influencing future
decisions (e.g., loyalty or regret).
Problem identification refers to the process of recognizing and understanding an issue or need that requires a
solution. It is the first step in decision-making and involves identifying the gap between the current situation
and the desired outcome.
Attitude formation refers to the process by which individuals develop their attitudes, which are their feelings,
beliefs, and behaviors toward objects, people, or ideas. These attitudes are shaped by various factors and
influence decision-making and behavior.
UNIT-V
S.No. Question
a) What is the industrial buying problem?
Industrial buying problems refer to the challenges and complexities organizations face when purchasing goods
and services for business use, production, or operations.
1. Complex Decision-Making
o Involves multiple stakeholders and lengthy processes.
2. Vendor Selection
o Difficulty in identifying reliable and cost-effective suppliers.
3. Quality Concerns Ensuring products meet required standards and specifications.
4. Cost Management Balancing quality with budget constraints.
5. Supply Chain Issues Problems with timely delivery and inventory management.
6. Technological Changes Keeping up with advancements affecting procurement needs.
7. Customization Needs Difficulty in sourcing products tailored to specific business requirements.
Buying decision refers to the process by which a consumer or organization decides whether, what, when, and from
whom to purchase a product or service. It involves evaluating needs, gathering information, comparing options,
and making a final choice.
Importance: Buying decisions influence consumer satisfaction, brand loyalty, and overall market dynamics.
1. Business-to-Business (B2B) Transactions Deals between businesses rather than between businesses and
consumers.
2. Bulk Purchases Large quantities of products or raw materials are purchased for production use.
3. Derived Demand Demand is driven by the need for products that are used in the production of other
goods or services.
4. Longer Decision-Making Process Purchasing decisions are often more complex and involve multiple
stakeholders.
5. Customized Products Often requires tailored products to meet specific operational needs.
6. Relationship-Based Stronger relationships between buyers and sellers, with long-term contracts and
agreements.
Examples: A company purchasing raw materials for manufacturing, or a hospital buying medical
equipment.
Service marketing refers to the promotion and sale of intangible products or services. It focuses on delivering
value through activities, experiences, or processes, rather than physical goods. Examples include banking,
healthcare, hospitality, and education.
Importance: Service marketing builds customer relationships, creates trust, and emphasizes the value of service
quality to drive satisfaction and loyalty.
1. New Task Buying A business purchases a product or service for the first time.
o Example: Buying new machinery for production.
2. Straight Rebuy Routine purchases of the same products without modification.
o Example: Regular ordering of raw materials.
3. Modified Rebuy Re-evaluation of an existing purchase with some changes (e.g., price, specifications, or
supplier).
o Example: Switching to a new supplier for better cost or quality.
Importance: Understanding the buying situation helps businesses design tailored marketing strategies for
industrial customers.
1. Need Recognition Identifying the need for goods or services required for operations or production.
2. Supplier Selection Evaluating and choosing suppliers based on price, quality, and reliability.
3. Information Gathering Researching products, services, and suppliers to make informed decisions.
4. Product Evaluation Assessing options based on technical specifications, cost, and performance.
5. Decision-Making Involving multiple stakeholders to finalize purchases.
6. Order Processing Managing contracts, negotiations, and purchase orders.
7. Post-Purchase Evaluation Reviewing supplier performance and product satisfaction for future decisions.
These functions help businesses make strategic and cost-effective purchasing decisions.
g) What are the importance s of organization buying behaviors?
1. Cost Efficiency Helps organizations make informed purchasing decisions to reduce costs.
2. Supplier Relationships Builds long-term partnerships with reliable suppliers for consistent quality.
3. Better Decision-Making Analyzing buying behavior ensures strategic and data-driven decisions.
4. Operational Continuity Ensures timely procurement of goods and services to avoid disruptions.
5. Customization Understands specific needs for tailored products or services.
6. Market Insight Provides information about trends and supplier performance for competitive advantage.
Understanding buying behavior ensures organizations achieve efficiency, quality, and long-term success.
h) What do you mean by industrial buying decision?
Industrial buying decision refers to the process by which businesses or organizations decide on purchasing goods
or services needed for production, operations, or resale. It is a systematic process involving multiple stakeholders
and complex evaluation criteria.
Importance: Ensures cost-effectiveness, quality procurement, and operational efficiency for businesses.
This structured process ensures efficiency and consistency in organizational purchasing decisions.
j) What are the differences between industrial buying Vs consumer buying?
Industrial buying is typically more complex and strategic, while consumer buying is more emotional and focused
on individual preferences.
SECTION-B (Short Answer Type Questions)
UNIT-I
S.No. Question
b) State the scope and nature of consumer behaviors.
c) consume is the starting and end of all economics activity. Explain about this statement
The statement "Consumer is the starting and end of all economic activity" highlights the central role
consumers play in the economy. Here's an explanation:
1. Starting Point (Demand Creation): Consumers drive economic activity by creating demand for goods
and services. Businesses produce goods and services based on consumer needs and preferences.
Without consumer demand, there would be no motivation for production or trade.
2. End Point (Purpose of Production): The ultimate goal of production is to satisfy consumer needs.
Goods and services are consumed by individuals, completing the economic cycle.
Consumers’ satisfaction and feedback influence future production and innovation.
3. Economic Flow: Consumers’ purchasing decisions impact all sectors of the economy, from raw material
suppliers to retailers.
Their spending contributes to national income, employment, and overall economic growth.
Conclusion: Consumers are the driving force behind economic activity, as their needs initiate production, and
their consumption completes the economic cycle. Without consumers, the economy would stagnate.
1. Understand Consumer Needs Helps marketers identify and fulfill consumer preferences and desires.
2. Identify Market Trends Provides insights into emerging trends, allowing businesses to stay ahead of
competition.
3. Optimize Marketing Strategies Enables the development of targeted and effective marketing
campaigns.
4. Improve Product Offerings Provides feedback on product performance and areas for improvement.
5. Enhance Customer Satisfaction Helps businesses understand consumer pain points and improve the
customer experience.
6. Measure Market Potential Assesses the size and potential of the market for better resource
allocation.
7. Reduce Risks Informed decisions based on market research reduce uncertainties and minimize risks.
UNIT-II
S.No. Question
e) What do mean by price effect on consumer behaviors?
1. Influences Purchasing – Higher prices may deter, lower prices encourage purchases.
2. Perceived Value – Higher prices may signal better quality.
3. Price Sensitivity – Some consumers are more affected by price changes.
4. Price Elasticity – Demand changes with price fluctuations.
5. Discounts & Promotions – Can boost consumer purchases.
6. Brand Loyalty – Price increases can lead to brand switching.
7. Psychological Pricing – Techniques like $9.99 make products seem cheaper.
• Perception How consumers interpret and make sense of information and stimuli (e.g., advertisements,
product features).
• Motivation The driving force behind a consumer’s need to fulfill a desire or solve a problem (e.g.,
purchasing a product to satisfy hunger or status).
• Attitudes The consumer's general feelings or evaluations about a product, brand, or service, which
influence their purchasing decisions.
• Learning The process through which consumers acquire knowledge or experience that influences future
decisions (e.g., positive experiences leading to brand loyalty).
• Personality Individual traits or characteristics that influence how consumers react to products, brands, and
marketing strategies (e.g., adventurous or conservative).
• Self-Concept How consumers perceive themselves and how this influences their choices (e.g., purchasing
products that align with their identity).
• Values and Beliefs The principles and beliefs that guide consumer decisions, shaping preferences for
certain products or brands based on cultural or personal values.
UNIT-III
S.No. Question
c) Discuss in detail the objectives and the factors influencing consumer personality.
Push and Pull Factors – Internal (push) and external (pull) influences on decisions.
1. Cultural Norms – Shared values and acceptable behaviors impact consumer choices.
2. Subcultures – Different cultural subgroups have unique consumption patterns.
3. Socialization – Learning cultural values from family, peers, and media.
4. Cultural Values & Beliefs – Deep cultural values shape preferences and attitudes.
5. Rituals and Traditions – Cultural practices influence buying behavior, especially around holidays.
6. Language & Communication – Language differences affect how consumers engage with brands.
7. Globalization – Exposure to global cultures influences local consumer trends.
UNIT-IV
S.No. Question
a) What are the bases of sub culture?
1. Ethnicity Subcultures formed based on ethnic or racial backgrounds, such as African American,
Hispanic, or Asian communities, influencing preferences and behaviors.
2. Religion Religious beliefs and practices create subcultures that influence consumer behavior, such as
dietary restrictions, holidays, and rituals.
3. Geography Regional differences within a country (e.g., urban vs. rural, North vs. South) lead to
distinct subcultures with unique consumption habits.
4. Age Groups Different age groups (e.g., Generation Z, Millennials, Baby Boomers) form subcultures
with specific preferences in technology, fashion, and lifestyle.
5. Social Class Economic status can create subcultures with different attitudes toward luxury, value, and
lifestyle choices (e.g., working-class vs. upper-class subcultures).
6. Lifestyle People with similar interests, hobbies, or values (e.g., fitness enthusiasts, gamers,
environmentalists) form subcultures that influence their consumption patterns.
7. Occupation Professional groups (e.g., doctors, engineers, artists) may have subcultures with distinct
behaviors, preferences, and brand loyalty.
8. Gender Gender-based subcultures, such as male and female groups, can have different consumption
patterns, especially in categories like fashion, beauty, and technology.
Conclusion:
Subcultures are formed based on various bases like ethnicity, religion, geography, and lifestyle, which shape
consumers' behaviors, preferences, and purchasing decisions. Understanding these subcultures helps marketers
target specific groups effectively.
1. More Information Search Higher involvement leads to consumers seeking more information about
the product, comparing alternatives, and researching options.
2. Greater Evaluation of Alternatives Consumers carefully evaluate different brands, features, and
prices to make an informed decision.
3. Longer Decision-Making Process The process becomes more deliberate and extended as the
consumer takes time to consider all factors.
4. Increased Emotional Investment Higher involvement typically means stronger emotional attachment
to the purchase, especially for high-involvement products like cars or houses.
5. Perceived Risk Consumers feel higher perceived risk in terms of financial, social, or emotional
consequences, leading to more cautious and thoughtful decision-making.
6. Influence of External Sources Consumers tend to consult more external sources, such as reviews,
expert opinions, or friends and family, when the purchase involves higher stakes.
Conclusion:As purchase involvement increases, consumers engage in a more thorough, deliberate, and
emotionally invested decision-making process to reduce risk and ensure satisfaction with the purchase.
An opinion leader is someone who influences the thoughts, decisions, and actions of others, especially in
a specific area or topic. People see them as knowledgeable, trustworthy, and reliable, often turning to
them for advice or recommendations. Opinion leaders help shape trends, share their views, and connect
consumers with brands. They can be influencers, celebrities, experts, or community leaders whose
opinions matter to their audience. In marketing, they play a key role in building trust and promoting
products by sharing honest and relatable messages.
UNIT-V
S.No. Question
a) What are the participant of industrial market .
• Economic Motives Focus on cost-effectiveness, profitability, and value for money. Industrial buyers look for
products that offer the best price-performance ratio.
• Product Quality Buyers prioritize products with high quality, reliability, and durability to ensure efficient
production and reduce downtime.
• Business Needs Purchases are driven by the specific operational needs of the organization, such as raw
materials, machinery, or technology upgrades.
• Supplier Relationship
• Strong relationships with trustworthy suppliers influence repeat purchases and long-term
collaborations.
• Customization and Flexibility Industrial consumers are motivated by products that can be tailored to their
unique requirements.
• Technical Support and After-Sales Service Access to ongoing support, training, and maintenance services is
a key motivator for buyers.
• Organizational Goals Decisions are aligned with long-term goals like sustainability, innovation, or market
competitiveness.
• Risk Reduction Buyers prefer proven products and established suppliers to minimize risks associated with
quality or delivery failures.
• Economic Factors Focus on cost, return on investment (ROI), and long-term profitability of purchases.
• Organizational Goals Decisions align with company objectives like productivity, quality, or sustainability.
• Product Specifications Emphasis on product quality, reliability, and technical compatibility with operations.
• Buying Process Follows a formalized and structured process involving multiple decision-makers.
• Supplier Relationship Trust, reputation, and long-term partnerships influence buying behavior.
• Risk Management Preference for reliable suppliers and proven products to minimize risks.
• Environmental Factors Influenced by market trends, economic conditions, and regulatory compliance.
• Social and Interpersonal Influences Interaction among teams, stakeholders, and individual preferences
within the organization.
• Buying Motivation
• Purchase Volume
• Industrial Consumers: Purchase in large quantities or bulk for production or business operations.
• Individual Customers: Typically make smaller, individual purchases for personal use.
• Decision-Making Process
• Industrial Consumers: Involves multiple stakeholders (e.g., managers, engineers, procurement teams)
in a formalized decision-making process.
• Individual Customers: Generally make decisions individually or with family/friends and without a
formal process.
• Product Complexity
• Industrial Consumers: Look for specialized, technical, and customized products for specific business
needs.
• Individual Customers: Purchase more standard, ready-made products for personal use.
• Purchase Frequency
• Industrial Consumers: Often make recurring or long-term purchases depending on business needs.
• Individual Customers: Make one-off or occasional purchases.
• Industrial Consumers: Tend to have long-term, ongoing relationships with suppliers for consistency
and reliability.
• Individual Customers: Relationship with brands or retailers is usually less personal and more
transactional.
• Risk Factors
• Industrial Consumers: More focused on minimizing operational risks, product failure, and production
downtime.
• Individual Customers: Concerned with personal satisfaction, convenience, and price.
1. Definition – Patterns and tendencies in consumer purchasing decisions (e.g., product choice,
frequency).
2. Types of Habits:
o Routine: Regular, low-effort purchases (e.g., groceries).
o Complex: In-depth research (e.g., car buying).
o Dissonance-Reducing: Uncertainty post-purchase (e.g., electronics).
o Variety-Seeking: Seeking change (e.g., trying new snacks).
3. Influencing Factors:
o Personal: Age, income, lifestyle.
o Social: Family, peer pressure.
o Psychological: Motivation, perception.
o Cultural: Values, traditions.
c) Discuss the various reasons of market dissatisfaction. How these problems can be reduced?
1. Poor Product Quality Products fail to meet customer expectations in terms of durability,
functionality, or performance.
2. Unmet Customer Expectations Promises made through marketing campaigns are not fulfilled,
leading to disappointment.
3. Customer Service Issues Lack of responsiveness, rude staff, or ineffective problem resolution can
create negative experiences.
4. High Prices Consumers feel they’re not receiving value for the money spent, especially when
comparing to competitors.
5. Lack of Product Availability Products being out of stock or unavailable at the right time causes
frustration.
6. Inconvenient Shopping Experience Difficult navigation, poor website design, or long queues can
lead to dissatisfaction.
7. Misleading Advertising False or exaggerated claims that don’t align with the actual product or
service.
8. Delivery Delays Late deliveries or inaccurate delivery information can lead to customer frustration.
1. Improve Product Quality Conduct regular quality checks and ensure consistency to meet customer
expectations.
2. Manage Customer Expectations Be transparent in marketing, provide accurate information, and
fulfill promises.
3. Enhance Customer Service Train staff, provide better support systems, and ensure quick, empathetic
resolution of issues.
4. Offer Competitive Pricing Ensure pricing aligns with value and adjust as needed to stay competitive
in the market.
5. Ensure Product Availability Maintain stock levels and improve inventory management to avoid
shortages.
6. Simplify the Shopping Experience Improve the usability of websites or stores and offer multiple
payment options to make shopping easier.
7. Honest Advertising Focus on truthful, clear messaging that accurately represents the product.
8. Timely Delivery Work on improving delivery systems and set realistic delivery expectations to avoid
delays.
• Psychology Focuses on understanding how individuals think, feel, and make decisions. Psychological factors
like motivation, perception, learning, and attitudes influence consumer behavior.
• Sociology Studies how social structures, groups, culture, and class affect consumer decisions. It looks at how
social influences such as family, peers, and society impact consumption.
• Anthropology Examines how culture, customs, traditions, and rituals influence consumer behavior. It helps
understand cultural norms and values that shape purchasing decisions.
• Economics Focuses on how consumers allocate resources like money, time, and effort. It studies the role of
supply and demand, pricing, and economic conditions in shaping consumer behavior.
• Marketing Examines how businesses influence consumer decisions through advertising, branding, product
design, and pricing strategies. It uses consumer behavior to guide product development and marketing tactics.
• Social Psychology Focuses on how individuals' behaviors are influenced by social environments, including
group dynamics, peer pressure, and the influence of reference groups.
1. Understanding Consumer Needs Helps businesses identify customer preferences, needs, and
expectations to develop relevant products or services.
2. Effective Targeting Assists in identifying specific consumer segments, allowing businesses to tailor
their marketing strategies to the right audience.
3. Improved Product Development Provides insights into what features or improvements consumers
want, guiding product design and innovation.
4. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction By understanding what drives satisfaction, businesses can adjust
their offerings to ensure better customer experiences.
5. Competitive Advantage Helps businesses monitor competitors, identify market trends, and find
opportunities to stay ahead in the market.
6. Better Marketing Strategies Offers valuable data on consumer behavior, enabling more effective
advertising, promotions, and communication tactics.
7. Risk Reduction Helps predict market trends, reducing the likelihood of product failures and ensuring
more informed decision-making.
8. Customer Retention Insights from consumer research enable businesses to build stronger
relationships and loyalty programs that retain customers.
UNIT-II
S.No. Question
a) Explain about Howard and Seth model.
The Howard and Seth Model, developed by John A. Howard and Jagdish N. Seth in 1969, is a comprehensive
framework for understanding consumer decision-making. It focuses on the psychological processes and factors
influencing consumer choices.
The Howard and Seth Model explains how consumers make decisions. It focuses on the mental processes and
factors that influence how people choose products.
The EKB Model (Engel, Kollat, and Blackwell Model), developed by Engel, Kollat, and Blackwell in 1968, is a
well-known framework used to understand the decision-making process of consumers. The model explains how
consumers go through different stages to make purchase decisions. The EKB Model explains how consumers
make purchasing decisions in a series of steps. It includes both marketing and external influences.
c) What are the indicators which marketer can have from EKV model
• Consumer Needs: Identifies when consumers recognize their needs, helping marketers time their campaigns.
• Information Search: Shows how and where consumers look for information, guiding marketing channels.
• Evaluation Criteria: Helps marketers understand the factors influencing consumer choices (price, quality).
• Decision Stage: Indicates where consumers are in the buying process (awareness, evaluation, post-purchase).
• Perception & Attitude: Helps gauge consumer perceptions and attitudes toward the product.
• Post-Purchase Satisfaction: Provides insights into customer satisfaction, influencing loyalty and repeat
purchases.
• Feedback: Guides future product improvements and marketing strategies based on consumer experiences.
• External Influences: Highlights the role of both marketing and social factors in decision-making.
d) Explain the benefits of attitude formation
1. Predicts Consumer Behavior Understanding consumer attitudes helps predict their future behaviors,
like buying preferences or brand loyalty.
2. Guides Marketing Strategies By knowing what attitudes consumers hold, marketers can design
tailored marketing campaigns and product offerings to align with consumer beliefs and preferences.
3. Brand Loyalty Positive attitudes toward a brand can lead to long-term loyalty, repeat purchases, and
recommendations to others.
4. Helps in Product Development Insights into consumer attitudes can guide product improvements,
ensuring the product meets the consumer's expectations and desires.
5. Improves Customer Satisfaction Companies can address negative attitudes or concerns to enhance
customer satisfaction and improve their overall experience with the brand.
6. Influences Purchase Decisions A positive attitude toward a product or service increases the likelihood
of purchase, influencing the overall success of marketing efforts.
7. Facilitates Effective Communication Understanding attitudes helps marketers communicate in ways
that resonate with consumers, using language and messages that appeal to their values and beliefs.
f) What do you mean by market survey? How it helpful in consumer problem identification?
• Cognitive Dimension Mental Processes: How consumers think, process information, and make decisions.
Includes: Attention, perception, learning, memory, and problem-solving.
Example: Evaluating product features, comparing alternatives.
• Affective Dimension Emotions and Feelings: The emotional response consumers have toward products or
brands.
Includes: Attitudes, feelings of trust, excitement, or loyalty.
Example: Feeling happy when buying a favorite brand or experiencing excitement about a new product.
• Behavioral Dimension
Actions and Responses: How consumers act or behave in response to stimuli (e.g., making a purchase).
Includes: Purchasing actions, usage patterns, and post-purchase behavior (returns, satisfaction).
Example: Buying a product after seeing an advertisement or repeating a purchase because of past satisfaction.
• Social Dimension Influence of Social Groups: The impact of family, friends, culture, and social class on
consumer decisions.
Includes: Peer influence, family preferences, social status.
Example: Choosing products based on social group recommendations or social norms.
• Situational Dimension Contextual Factors: The influence of specific situations and environments
on decision-making.
Includes: Time pressure, physical environment (store layout, atmosphere), or current mood.
Example: Deciding to buy a product due to limited-time offers or promotions.
• Cultural Dimension Cultural Influence: The role of cultural background, values, and customs in shaping
consumer preferences and behaviors.
Includes: Traditions, beliefs, and societal norms.
Example: Cultural preferences for certain foods, styles, or holidays.
UNIT-III
S.No. Question
d) Explain the confluences of family buying.
Family buying behavior refers to how family members, collectively, make decisions about purchasing products and
services. Several factors influence this decision-making process, with various family members playing different
roles. These factors come together in "confluences," meaning they combine or intersect in the buying process. Key
confluences include:
• Roles of Family Members: Different roles like initiators, influencers, deciders, buyers, and users influence the
buying process.
• Family Needs: Decisions are based on collective family needs, not just individual preferences (e.g., buying a
family car).
• Cultural & Social Influences: Family buying is shaped by cultural traditions and social norms (e.g., food
preferences during holidays).
• Economic Factors: Family income and budget affect purchasing decisions (e.g., choosing affordable products).
• Emotional & Psychological Factors: Past experiences and emotional connections influence decisions (e.g.,
choosing a product because it reminds them of past family moments).
• External Influences: Advertising, peer recommendations, and societal trends also affect family buying choices
(e.g., purchasing trending products)
• Genetic Factors (Nature): Innate traits and temperament passed down from parents influence personality.
• Early Childhood Experiences: Family interactions, parenting styles, and early nurturing shape early personality
development.
• Social Interactions: Peer influences and social interactions help develop social skills, self-esteem, and behavior
patterns.
• Cultural and Societal Influences: Culture, societal norms, and values influence traits like cooperation,
independence, and assertiveness.
• Life Experiences and Education: School, education, and life experiences shape behavior, values, and skills.
• Cognitive and Emotional Development: Self-reflection and developing a personal identity contribute to a
deeper sense of self.
• Adaptation to Life Challenges: Overcoming challenges and life changes leads to personal growth and
personality evolution.
Definition:
Lifestyle refers to the way individuals or groups live, encompassing their daily habits, routines, interests, values,
and behaviors. It is shaped by a combination of social, economic, cultural, and personal factors.
Key Features:
1. Personal Choices: Lifestyle reflects how people choose to spend their time, money, and energy,
influencing activities like work, leisure, and social interactions.
2. Cultural Influence: Cultural background, traditions, and societal norms play a significant role in shaping
lifestyle, including food habits, clothing choices, and entertainment preferences.
3. Economic Factors: A person’s income and social status determine lifestyle choices, such as the type of
housing, mode of transportation, and leisure activities they can afford.
4. Health and Wellness: Health-conscious lifestyles focus on fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being,
influencing decisions on diet, exercise, and self-care.
5. Technology and Media: Modern lifestyles are increasingly shaped by technology, including social
media, digital entertainment, and online shopping, affecting how individuals interact with the world.
6. Environmental Impact: Eco-friendly lifestyles prioritize sustainability, recycling, and minimizing
carbon footprints.
• Understanding lifestyle helps businesses design products and services that align with consumers'
preferences and values.
• Marketers segment consumers based on lifestyle factors to target specific groups effectively.
• Define the Attitude Object: Identify the subject or issue to measure attitudes towards (e.g., product, brand).
• Choose the Measurement Method: Select the method (surveys, interviews, questionnaires).
• Develop Questions/Items: Create questions related to the attitude object, covering cognitive, affective, and
behavioral aspects.
• Select a Scale: Choose an appropriate scale (Likert scale, Semantic Differential, Thurstone scale).
• Administer the Survey: Distribute the tool to a representative sample of participants.
• Collect Data: Gather responses from participants.
• Analyze Data: Use statistical methods to analyze responses (e.g., mean scores).
• Interpret Results: Draw insights to understand the overall attitude.
• Feedback and Adjustments: Use findings to adjust strategies, products, or communication.
Definition:
Perceptual selection refers to the process through which individuals focus on certain stimuli in their environment
while ignoring others. This is influenced by various psychological, social, and situational factors. In consumer
behavior, it explains how consumers pay attention to specific information, such as advertisements or product
details, while filtering out irrelevant or less noticeable stimuli.
Key Factors Influencing Perceptual Selection:
1. Perceptual Filters: These include personal factors such as past experiences, interests, attitudes, and
expectations that shape what we notice.
Example: A person interested in fitness may pay more attention to health-related ads while ignoring
others.
2. Needs and Motives: People tend to focus on information that satisfies their needs or interests.
Example: A hungry person might be more likely to notice food advertisements.
3. Novelty and Uniqueness: New, unusual, or unexpected stimuli tend to capture attention.
Example: A brightly colored advertisement may stand out more than a plain one.
4. Intensity and Size: Stronger, larger, or more vivid stimuli are more likely to be noticed.
Example: A large billboard on the side of the road will attract more attention than a small sign.
5. Relevance and Timing: Information that is relevant to an individual’s current situation or need is more
likely to be noticed.
Example: A shopper looking for winter coats will notice ads for jackets more than ads for sandals.
6. Emotional Appeal: Stimuli that evoke strong emotional responses are more likely to be noticed and
remembered.
Example: Advertisements that use humor, surprise, or sentimental emotions may capture more attention.
Importance in Marketing:
UNIT-IV
S.No. Question
a) What are different types of buying motives?. How does primary buying motivates differ from secondary buying
motives?
1. Emotional Motives: Driven by feelings, desires, and emotions. Consumers often make purchases to
fulfill emotional needs such as love, fear, or excitement.
o Example: Buying a luxury car for status or emotional satisfaction.
2. Rational Motives: Based on logical reasoning and practical considerations. These motives are focused on
functionality, price, quality, and practicality.
o Example: Purchasing a durable and affordable appliance after comparing its features.
3. Patronage Motives: Motives that focus on the desire to buy from a particular store, brand, or company
due to past experiences or brand loyalty.
o Example: Regularly buying from a favorite grocery store because of its customer service.
4. Habitual Motives: Driven by routine or habit, consumers make purchases out of tradition or because they
have always bought a particular product.
o Example: Choosing the same toothpaste or cereal brand every time because it’s familiar.
5. Social Motives: Motivated by the desire to conform to social norms or to influence others. This often
involves purchasing products to enhance one’s social standing.
o Example: Buying fashionable clothes to fit in with peers or purchasing an eco-friendly product
to appeal to environmental concerns.
6. Economic Motives: Driven by the consumer’s desire to save money or make a good investment. Often
related to considerations of cost-effectiveness or value for money.
o Example: Purchasing a product on sale or seeking a budget-friendly option.
Primary Buying Motives vs. Secondary Buying Motives
Key Differences:
b) What do you mean by consumer satisfaction? How do you describe the process of consumer satisfaction?
Consumer satisfaction refers to the degree to which a consumer's expectations of a product or service are met or
exceeded after purchasing and using it. It is a key indicator of whether a customer is happy with their experience
and whether they are likely to repurchase or recommend the product or service to others.
c) What do you mean by consumer purchase problem? What are the steps of problem denitrification?
A consumer purchase problem refers to any difficulty, uncertainty, or challenge that a consumer faces during the
process of buying a product or service. These problems can arise at any stage of the decision-making process,
including need recognition, information search, evaluation, or post-purchase behavior. Understanding and
addressing these problems is crucial for marketers to ensure a smooth purchasing experience and increase
customer satisfaction.