Gift-giving is a universal practice deeply ingrained in human culture. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding anniversary, holiday, or any other special occasion, the act of presenting someone with a gift is a symbolic gesture that transcends borders and time. So, what exactly lies beneath the surface of this seemingly simple act? What psychological factors drive our desire to give and receive gifts? In this article, we will delve into the psychology behind gift-giving, exploring the intrinsic motivations, social dynamics, and emotional impact that make this act so powerful.
Why Do People Exchange Gifts During Festivals?
Dr. Malini Saba, who is a distinguished Psychologist, Philanthropist, Human Rights Activist, Environmentalist, Author of Food Books, Global Advocate for Women and Girls, and the Founder & Chairman of Anannke Foundation said, “Giving and receiving gifts at festivals is of great importance due to the fact that it forms a colourful tapestry woven with threads of tradition, cultural history, intense human emotions, and an aspiration for social empowerment. Festival gift giving involves a wide range of motivations, each of which reflects the great variety of human experiences.”
As we examine this valued practice, let us shed light on the complex motivations for this age-old habit and its contribution to the empowerment of underserved communities:
- Expression of Emotions: Giving gifts to beloved family members, friends, and loved ones is a meaningful gesture and a material representation of love, care, and compassion. It represents the immeasurable significance these relationships hold.
- Customs and Traditions: Many festivities have well-established gift-giving customs that are deeply ingrained in cultural and religious practices. These practices preserve the cultural tapestry by symbolising the sharing and spreading of joy on festive occasions.
- Celebration and contentment: By their very nature, festivals represent happiness and celebration. The giving and receiving of gifts enhances the holiday spirit and fosters a sense of joy and community.
- Thanks and Appreciation: Giving gifts is a way to express thanks and appreciation for people in one’s life and their efforts, as well as an acknowledgement of their importance.
- Fostering goodwill: The act of gift-giving promotes goodwill and strengthens social ties. It fosters a sense of belonging and harmony among both people and groups.
- A sign of abundance and blessings: Giving gifts, particularly on significant occasions, can be a means to wish the recipient prosperity and blessings, adding a deeper level of meaning to the act.
- Reinforcing social relationships: Giving gifts is a crucial strategy for preserving and enhancing social bonds. It encourages connections, strengthening relationships with friends and family.
- Fulfilling Societal Expectations: In some societies, customs and traditions demand the giving and receiving of gifts on particular occasions. Failure to follow these rules could be interpreted as rudeness or a lack of respect.
- Increasing Generosity and Selflessness: Festivals frequently stress the value of generosity and selflessness. The custom of giving gifts encourages people to share with others and is a natural fit with these beliefs.
- Sharing Happiness and Making Memories: Giving and receiving gifts not only intensifies the holiday spirit but also fosters lifelong memories and experiences that people treasure.
- Empowering marginalised communities: By promoting the goods made by marginalised communities, festival gift-giving can help strengthen those in need. Buying their crafts helps local economies, empowers people and communities by giving them a reliable source of income, and promotes economic independence.
Additionally, Varun Moolchandani, who is the Executive Director of Archies mentione the following reasons:
1. Self-presentation and identity expression
Gifts are not only about the recipient; they also serve as a reflection of the giver’s identity and self-presentation. The choice of a gift can communicate information about the giver’s values, tastes, and personal traits. It allows people to express their creativity, thoughtfulness, and ability to understand others’ needs. Moreover, gift-giving can also be influenced by societal norms and cultural expectations, as we all strive to conform to or deviate from these expectations. By giving a gift, we reinforce their social roles, establish their status within a group, and project a desired image onto others.
2. Psychological benefits for the giver
While the act of giving is primarily focused on the recipient, research has shown that it also brings significant psychological benefits to the giver. The act of giving gifts activates the brain’s reward center, triggering the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and happiness. This experience of positive emotions contributes to increased overall well-being and a sense of fulfillment. Additionally, giving to others can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, enhancing one’s self-esteem and self-worth.
“From greeting cards to a pair of shoes, all gifts convey emotions, cement the nature of relationships, propose a change in relationship status, offer condolences, impart joy, express gratitude, grant forgiveness, and so on. Whether you gift your neighbour a coffee mug on their birthday or plan a weekend getaway for your romantic partner, the act of giving and receiving gifts was, is, and will always be a tradition instilled into our minds,” he added.
On concluding, Vijaya Dhulipudi, who is a Counselling Lead at Praan Mental Wellness said, “Gifting should not be understood only in the material sense of its existence. There is a profound psychological impact of gifting. Gifting also builds trust by demonstrating thoughtfulness, care, and reciprocity. It activates social bonding, gratitude, and fosters positive emotions, enhancing the giver-receiver relationship which is important for everyone’s emotional & mental wellbeing. These shared experiences have the potential to enhance our overall well-being and mental health, managing low self-esteem, creating a sense of belonging and reducing loneliness.”