What best defines 'Extensive problem solving' in consumer decision-making?

Extensive problem solving is characterized by the need for thorough consideration and evaluation when making a decision, which often arises in situations where consumers face high-stakes choices or significant purchases. This type of decision-making involves considerable effort in gathering information, considering alternatives, and weighing potential outcomes before arriving at a conclusion.

Infrequent buying situations tend to be associated with high personal relevance, financial investment, or the emotional significance of the purchase. Because of this, consumers tend to engage in extensive problem solving as they seek to ensure they make the best possible choice, leading them to evaluate various factors, such as quality, price, and brand reputation.

The other options represent different types of decision-making processes that require less effort or are driven by routine, making them less suitable for defining extensive problem solving. For instance, quick decisions on low-cost items are typically made with minimal deliberation, while automatic purchases based on habit involve no significant thought at all. Decisions that carry high personal relevance could overlap with extensive problem solving, but they do not exclusively define it without considering the context of infrequency.