American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Practice Test

Which step comes first in the decision process before making a purchase?

1. Evaluate choices

2. Post purchase evaluation

3. Need recognition

4. Information gathering

The correct answer is: Need recognition

The first step in the decision-making process before making a purchase is need recognition. This step involves identifying that a specific need or want exists, prompting the individual to consider a purchase. It is essential because it lays the foundation for all subsequent steps in the decision process. Without recognizing a need, there would be no motivation to gather information, evaluate choices, or make a purchase. Recognizing a need can stem from various sources, such as internal stimuli (personal feelings and desires) or external stimuli (advertisements, recommendations from others). This initial awareness drives the consumer to explore options that can satisfy that need, ultimately guiding them through the rest of the purchasing process.