Americans look to the holiday for meaning

From November 9 to12, 2001, the Center for a New American Dream commissioned a national poll. The survey, conducted by Opinion Research Corporation International, was administered by phone to 1,039 adults nationwide. Findings from the survey have a margin of error of +/- 3 percent with a 95 percent level of confidence.

Poll Highlights

The Public Looks Deeper

• 63% plan to make this holiday season more meaningful than ever as a result of September 11.

Americans Unmoved by Patriotic Spending Messages

• 70% want to help the economy, but are concerned about spending too much or going into debt.
• Only 8% think we should use this holiday season as an opportunity to stimulate the economy.
• 85% think we should use this holiday season to focus on friends, family and meaning.

September 11 Helps People Focus on Family, Meaningful Gifts

• 49% plan to spend more time with friends and family as a result of September 11.
• 26% plan to give more personal or meaningful gifts.
• 21% plan to buy fewer or less expensive gifts.
• 21% intend to get more involved with their faith community.
• 19% are planning to reduce their credit card use.
• Only 3% plan to buy more or more expensive gifts.