That each individual will act to prevent or to minimize his or her loss  however, is certain.

Human beings however, are more than just fearful creatures flitting nervously from shadow to shadow trying to prevent or minimize his or her losses.

Men and women also strive to promote or maximize their gains.

In a sense, while it is true that to minimize a loss is to maximize a gain (or vice versa), the general kind of behavioral pattern that results will depend upon whether the individual - at the moment - is seeking to maximize a gain or merely to minimize a loss.

For example, it is typical that an individual fearing a loss will seek to avoid risk. He or she will retreat, hide, or try to find comfort by associating with others who may also fear a loss.

However, if the same individual has put aside his fear, and is actively seeking (and expecting) gain, he or she will act in quite another way. They will adventure, dare, take chances, and be willing to run a few risks.

Significantly, he or she usually will not be seeking the comfort of others with whom to share his or her gains!