Models of intertemporal choice (ITC) have traditionally focused on choices. Recently though, a growing interest in the underlying cognitive processes has initiated the development of process models, such as dual system theories and evidence accumulation models. However, process models require process data, and yet ITC research has largely overlooked even the simplest process data – response times (RTs). This project aims to bridge that gap by exploring reliable relationships between choice and RT in ITC, such as faster smaller-sooner than larger-later choice as predicted by dual-system theories.

We conducted a systematic search across two major databases and have retrieved 112 datasets including both choices and RTs from ITC studies with a wide range of experimental designs. In total we have gathered data from over 12,000 subjects from diverse populations and over one million trials. In addition to behavioral data, we collected methodological and sample information (e.g., task procedure, incentivization, age). This provides a strong foundation for the identification of robust effects.

We analyzed the data compilation using hierarchical linear models. The results show no support for the predictions made by dual system theories but are in line with evidence accumulation accounts. We additionally explore potential moderating factors of these effects both on a study and a participant level. More generally, the project shows the value of including RT data to distinguish between different models of ITC