Survey of Consumer Attitudes and Behavior, March 1997

This survey 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 inquired about buying intentions for automobiles and
computers, and the respondents' appraisals of present market
conditions for purchasing houses, automobiles, computers, and other
durables. Also explored in this survey were respondents' types of
savings and financial investments, credit card and loan use, family
income, and sources of income. Other questions focused on respondents'
use of personal computers at home and in the office, and respondents'
ownership, lease, and use of automobiles. Demographic information
includes ethnic origin, sex, age, marital status, and education.