what is the first step in the consumer decision-making process?

The first step in the consumer decision-making process is need recognition (also called problem recognition). This occurs when a consumer realizes they have a need or problem that requires a product or service to solve it. This recognition can be triggered by internal stimuli (such as hunger or a desire for a healthier lifestyle) or external stimuli (such as advertisements or recommendations). Once the consumer recognizes this need, it motivates them to seek ways to fulfill it, which leads to the next steps in the process