Xmas > Christmas News

Christmas shopping is not good for your relationship

Thu, 01 Dec 2005

According to a survey for support agency Relate, Christmas shopping can be stressful and lead to relationship problems.

While out searching for gifts more than half the respondents admitted arguing with a partner or spouse.

Most women would rather go alone to do their Christmas shopping, with only a quarter preferring to go with a partner.

By contrast, nearly half the men questioned named their girlfriend or wife as the perfect shopping companion.

Younger interviewees were more upbeat, with 41 per cent of 16 to 24 year olds saying that hitting the shops was enjoyable and put them in the mood for Christmas.

"Christmas can be a stressful time for couples and families, so don't worry if you find yourself bickering with your partner about who's going to write the gift tags," said Relate counsellor Denise Knowles.

She advised people to "keep communicating" with their partners over the festive period so that both parties know what needs to be done.

Relate says as relationships can be put under strain over Christmas, they advise couples to divide the Christmas shopping and preparation so that one person does not feel too pressured.

The relationship support agency says, "Couples should also discuss budgets, and stick to them to avoid financial strains."