Analysis Reveals: Rising Inflation Affecting Intimacy and Social Engagements
The latest YouGov survey, commissioned by "Kleinanzeigen.de," reveals a significant impact of inflation on human interaction, anxiety, and self-confidence in Germany. The survey findings suggest that the rising cost of living is causing increased anxiety, which in turn affects confidence and social interactions.
One of the key findings is the reduction in social activities. More than half of adults in Germany are going out to restaurants, cinemas, or theaters less often due to inflation. This financial pressure is also contributing to a measurable decrease in self-confidence, as individuals feel less secure about their economic stability and future prospects. Anxiety levels are rising as a direct response to these economic changes, impacting overall mental well-being and social behavior.
The survey also indicates that inflation leads to more cautious spending and social withdrawal. This is particularly evident among men and those aged 25 to 44, who are more likely to report a worse sex life and a worsening of their love life due to financial stress. In addition, among those aged 25 to 44, one in ten has adjusted their family planning due to the economic situation, wanting fewer children.
Interestingly, older adults are more likely to say that inflation has not affected their well-being. However, the belief that food has become more expensive compared to last year is held by 78 percent of respondents, while the actual increase is 2.0 percent, according to the Federal Statistical Office. Similarly, the belief that energy prices have increased is held by over half of respondents (53 percent), but according to the Federal Statistical Office, energy prices have decreased by about 3.5 percent.
The survey also reveals that around 18 percent report lower self-esteem because they can afford less. Women are more likely to report lower self-esteem, and young adults aged 18 to 24 are most likely to say that friendships have suffered because they are doing less with friends.
It's worth noting that the highest inflation rate in Germany since reunification was measured nearly three years ago, at 8.8 percent in October and November 2022. However, in June, the inflation rate was 2.0 percent, lower than in June 2024, contrary to the beliefs of many respondents.
The survey results highlight the disconnect between the beliefs of the majority of respondents regarding food, energy, and service prices and the actual figures reported by the Federal Statistical Office. This discrepancy suggests that the responses reflect a pessimistic mood that may be based on false assumptions and feelings that have solidified over the years.
For more detailed findings from the YouGov survey, accessing the original Kleinanzeigen.de report or YouGov publication would be necessary.
- The rise in inflation is causing a significant impact on the science of mental health in Germany, as anxiety levels increase due to financial pressure and economic instability.
- The workplace-wellness and health-and-wellness sectors are experiencing a shift, with decreased participation in fitness-and-exercise activities and increased feelings of anxiety among adults.
- In the realm of personal-finance and personal-growth, more individuals are reporting lower self-confidence and self-esteem, which in turn affects relationship dynamics and family-dynamics.
- The business sector is seeing a direct correlation between inflation and career-development, as increasing numbers of adults are forced to withdraw socially and curb spending.
- Education-and-self-development has taken a backseat as financial concerns dominate the concerns of many adults, impacting their overall lifestyle and future prospects.
- Older adults may perceive that they are immune to the effects of inflation, but the survey reveals a disconnect between their beliefs and the actual figures reported by the Federal Statistical Office.
- Despite the decrease in inflation rates in recent months, the survey data suggests that the mood among the majority of respondents remains pessimistic, potentially influencing their interactions, relationships, and overall outlook on life.
