Question

recent studies suggest that an overabundance of options may impede decision - making and decrease overall satisfaction. (5) the sheer volume of television channels, mobile phone plans, and snack options—once viewed as empowering—can foster decision fatigue and cognitive overload instead. (6) rather than enhancing the shopping experience, this surplus of alternatives can paralyze consumers, making them less likely to make a confident selection. (7) one notable study involving four hundred american participants revealed compelling evidence of this phenomenon. (8) researchers observed that when individuals were asked to choose a healthy juice from a pool of thirty similar products, more than one - third could not arrive at a decision they felt good about. (9) this hesitation was not rooted in apathy, but in a fear of making the wrong choice—one that might be immediately regretted. (10) moreover, those who made a selection frequently expressed post - decision regret, second - guessing whether their choice had been the best. (11) this tendency to ruminate on alternatives, rather than feel satisfied, indicates a broader issue with the assumption that infinite choice leads to improved well - being. (12) although limitless options may appear beneficial on the surface, the evidence increasingly supports the counterintuitive idea that consumers may
22
question
in context, which of the following is the best way of expressing the underlined word in sentence 3 (reproduced below)?
however, emerging psychological and behavioral research is increasingly challenging this assumption.
a denying
b refuting
c undermining
d questioning

Explanation:

"Challenging" in this context means calling into question or casting doubt on an assumption. "Questioning" has a similar meaning of raising doubts or inquiries. "Denying" is too strong as it implies a complete rejection; "refuting" requires presenting evidence to prove something false which isn't fully indicated here; "undermining" is more about weakening something gradually rather than simply raising doubts.

Answer:

D. questioning