How Gifts Affect the Brain
A gift is a symbolic act of love and devotion.gifts It's also a way to connect with other people. That's why it's important to choose a meaningful gift for the right person and make sure that the giver has their best interests in mind. Gift giving is a complex process, with different factors that influence the results.
Gifts are a social ritual that has roots in ancient human history.gifts Researchers believe that cavemen gave presents like unusually shaped rocks and animal teeth to strengthen their connections with others and show their appreciation for one another. And even in pre-colonial times, Native American tribes would hold potlatch ceremonies to give away property and gifts as a sign of wealth and status.
The act of giving and receiving a gift activates reward pathways in the brain. When we give a gift, the brain releases oxytocin and dopamine, which create feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. And when we receive a gift, the brain produces the same chemicals, which makes us feel grateful and happy. These rewarding emotions are heightened when the gift is given to someone we care about, or it's something that we know will bring them joy.
But how do we know whether or not a gift will be well received? While marketers, influencers and innumerable gift guides might suggest otherwise, the truth is that whether a gift is a home run or an epic fail depends less on the price tag or the design and more on the giver's ability to listen and observe. "Givers often get hung up on how they should express their feelings and what kind of present will be the most thoughtful, but that can sometimes come off as condescending," Dr. Julian Givi, an assistant professor of marketing at West Virginia University, says.
If you're in the market for a gift, consider asking the person what they want and work from their registry. This will help you avoid buying a gift that won't be appreciated. Moreover, experiential gifts — like concert tickets or a cooking class — can bring you and the recipient closer.
Monetary gifts can be a powerful tool to help someone you love, but they should be within your financial means. It's also important to think about the recipient's needs, such as paying off a student loan or helping out with a medical bill. Unequal monetary gifts can create tension within families, so it's helpful to have a conversation about it before you give any presents.
If you're tired of the stress that comes with giving and receiving gifts, try experimenting with new traditions. For instance, many families are switching to drawing names for Christmas or limiting gifts to children under 18. In addition, they're looking into alternative gifts like consumables and experiences. Some are even changing how they gift money, such as by pooling their resources to buy one significant gift for everyone. This approach can reduce the pressure on both the givers and receivers, and is often a hit.