What Does Gift-Giving Say About a Person?
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We all know that giving gifts—and especially receiving them—can fill us with joy. But have you ever wondered why? We certainly have! That’s why we dug into the psychology behind gift-giving. Why do we give gifts? And how much does "the thought" really matter? If you’re curious, read on to discover the answers!
Whether it’s for a significant other or your best friend’s birthday, most of us love both giving and receiving gifts. But where did this tradition come from? It turns out, it’s nothing new. In this post, we’ll share a quick history lesson on the origins of gift-giving.
Why Do We Give Gifts?
Research suggests that people generally have two main goals when giving a gift: first, to bring happiness to the recipient, and second, to strengthen the relationship between giver and receiver. This is often achieved by choosing a gift that is both thoughtful and memorable—something the recipient would appreciate without having to ask for it directly.
To Build and Strengthen Relationships
Gift-giving can help build and sustain meaningful connections. How? It demonstrates thoughtfulness, care, and that we value the other person’s feelings. Whether it’s an expensive piece of jewelry or a simple candy ring from the dollar store—what matters is the intention behind it. A meaningful gift can leave a lasting impact regardless of its price.
A Way to Show Love and Appreciation
Have you ever received a deeply meaningful gift? If so, you know how powerful it can be. Meaningful gifts often stay with us—we remember who gave them to us, when, and why. These gifts carry emotional weight and serve as lasting reminders of love and devotion.
To Feel Good Ourselves
While it might sound a little selfish, giving also makes us feel good. We’re more likely to put effort into choosing a meaningful gift for someone we truly care about. Making our loved ones happy, in turn, brings us joy and satisfaction.
How Much Does the Thought Really Count?
Studies show that people often overestimate their ability to pick the perfect gift for someone. We may assume that an unrequested gift—one the recipient never even hinted at wanting—will be seen as especially thoughtful. But that’s not always the case.
Gift-givers also sometimes believe that a more expensive present will be viewed as more considerate. However, research indicates that recipients tend to appreciate expensive and inexpensive gifts fairly equally. What really matters to them is whether the gift helps them feel closer to the giver.
So yes—when it comes to gift-giving, the thought does count.