Breaking Down The Science Of Holiday Shopping
FORT WORTH (CBS 11 NEWS) - There are 14 shopping days left until Christmas.
Are you feeling the stress and anxiety of finding that perfect gift yet?
Did you get your best friend that sweater or some jewelry?
How about your parents? Really you want to get them in iPad, but that's maybe a little too expensive.
As you make those tough decisions, consider this: there is a science behind giving.
For instance, a study by the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that when you give someone a thoughtful gift, you feel closer to that person and not the other way around.
"I usually ask them what they want," says Ann Crowell. "I can never go wrong with that."
Becky Jones spent the night shopping in Southlake and says, "I think about the things they've mentioned through the year. I think about the things that are meaningful for them."
Another study in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that spending more money on a gift doesn't necessarily mean greater appreciation.
"He can write a card to me and it really is the words that count, not how much money he spent on diamond earrings," says Aaron Jones, as her husband Chris quickly chimes in "You better watch your words!"
It may not be the thought that counts. It is the gift that does really count, but what about the whole idea of re-gifting?
A survey by American Express says 79% of people believe re-gifting is perfectly alright.
Shoppers have mixed feelings.
"I usually almost use the gift I get," says Crowell.
An online poll by a credit card comparison website says women actually re-gift at a 50% greater rate then men.
In the end, shoppers say they've been most successful when they've kept it simple and just bought what their loved ones or friends wanted.
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