Survey of Consumer Attitudes and Behavior, April 1995

The Survey of Consumer Attitudes and Behavior series (also known as the Surveys of Consumers) was undertaken to measure changes in consumer attitudes and expectations, to understand why such changes occur, and to evaluate how they relate to consumer decisions to save, borrow, or make discretionary purchases. This type of information is essential for
forecasting changes in aggregate consumer behavior. Since the 1940s,
these surveys have been produced quarterly through 1977 and monthly
thereafter. Each monthly survey probes a different aspect of consumer
confidence. Open-ended questions are asked concerning evaluations and
expectations about personal finances, employment, price changes, and
the national business situation. Additional questions probe buying
intentions for automobiles and the respondent's appraisals of present
market conditions for purchasing houses, automobiles, and other
durables. Demographic information includes ethnic origin, sex, age,
and education.