Experimental and self-reported measures of risk taking and digit ratio (2D:4D): evidence from a large, systematic study

Using a large (n=704) sample of laboratory subjects, we systematically investigate the links between the digit ratio - a biomarker for pre-natal testosterone exposure - and two measures of individual risk taking: (i) risk preferences over lotteries with real monetary incentives, and (ii) self-reported risk attitude. The digit ratio (also called 2D:4D) is the ratio of the length of the index finger to the length of the ring finger, and we consider both hands’ digit ratios. Previous studies have found that the digit ratio correlates with risk taking in some subject samples, but not others. In our sample, we find that both the right-hand and the left-hand digit ratio are significantly associated with risk preferences: subjects with lower digit ratios tend to choose riskier lotteries. Neither digit ratio, however, is associated with self-reported risk attitude.

Final accepted version: This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Brañas‐Garza, P. , Galizzi, M. M. and Nieboer, J. (2018), Experimental and Self‐Reported Measures of Risk Taking and Digit Ratio (2D:4D): Evidence from a Large, Systematic Study. International Economic Review, 59: 1131-1157. doi:10.1111/iere.12299. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.