Monday, May 18, 2009

Survey: Americans reclassifying luxury, necessity in recession

By Sharon Jayson in USA TODAY

As the economy is changing, so are the attitudes of consumers. It is evident that money is quickly becoming scarce in our nation today. Whether it be people being fired or being laid off, or companies not hiring because they no longer have the money to employ as many as they once did. Because money is running low today, people are quickly becoming aware that it is vital that they do not spend as much as they have in the past. For instance, people used to believe they had to have certain appliances before the recession and now they are changing their thoughts and their ways. In the article I read that A Pew Research Center did a survey of luxuries and necessities. Jayson said the results of the survey were, "68% said a microwave was a necessity, now that's 47 %. 52 % say a TV is a necessity today, down from 64 % in 2006."
In addition to the survey done by the Pew Research Center, Pew researchers requested that consumers would share their thoughts on the struggling economy. The following is what they said, "27% reported they or someone in their household had lost a job or been laid off in the past year, 80% have cut back, and 20 % said they're doing more work in and around their homes." Although consumers are cutting back more these days, they still strongly believe that the cellphone is a huge necessity along with the Internet. I fully agree with them because if you or one of your family members, or friends is laid off then it is incredibly important that you have access to a phone where you can be reached at at all times. If you are seeking employment, it is imperative that the potential employer be able to reach you at all times. Also, if you are currently searching for a job, there is no better way than to do that than on the Internet. Once you receive that next job, then you are well on your way to picking up where you left off.  Having financial stability will enable you to feel free to shop without worrying whether you can pay the bills. 


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