Survey of Consumer Attitudes and Behavior, March 1992

This monthly survey series was undertaken to measure changes in consumer attitudes and expectations, to explain why such changes occur, and to evaluate how these changes relate to consumer decisions to save, borrow, or make discretionary purchases. This type of information is also used for forecasting changes in aggregate consumer behavior. 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.