Efectos de la vulnerabilidad cognitiva en la toma de decisiones de estudiantes de Turismo de un tecnológico de Guayaquil.

Abstract

This research aims to identify the effects of cognitive vulnerability on decision-making among Tourism students at a public technological institute in Guayaquil. A quantitative methodology was employed, based on a positivist paradigm, using a non-experimental design with a descriptive scope. Data collection techniques included a literature review, surveys, and standardized psychological assessments such as the International Personality Disorders Examination (IPDE), the Millon Personality Styles Inventory (MIPS), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-2). The results indicate that decision-making is influenced by cognitive, emotional, and contextual factors closely related to personality traits and styles. Additionally, contextual factors and prior experiences were found to activate cognitive-schemas and automatic thoughts, generating emotional responses that affect decision-making behaviour. Conflictive contexts, particularly within the familiy and the broader social environment (city and country), were identified as significant influences on students’ past, present and future decision-making, especially among those presenting indicators of cognitive vulnerability. Among the most frequent responses were ruminative thinking, emotional exhaustion, and disruption of daily habits; these reflect difficulties in processing information and, consequently, in making adaptive decisions.