This is the perfect Christmas gift, according to science

Have you already got all your presents for Christmas? If not, that's not a problem yet, because a British study from 2016 can help you get the scientifically proven perfect gift at short notice.

Experts recommend giving experiences as gifts

In the experiment conducted, the researchers compared material gifts with experience gift vouchers, for example, shared cinema tickets, and examined their effect on the relationship between the giver and the recipient. After all, the authors emphasise that giving a gift is primarily about strengthening the connection between the two parties.

The results of the study paint a clear picture. On average, it was mainly the experience gifts that particularly improved the relationship between the two people. According to the researchers, this is due to the emotional bond that is particularly emphasised when the gift certificate is redeemed - i.e. the shared experience.

Stronger bond through shared experience

So if your aim is not only to fulfil a service with your Christmas gifts but actually to give you and your loved ones a good time, Cindy Chan's team advises using experience gift vouchers instead of 'classic', material gifts.

Money, by the way, is not a real alternative to experience vouchers or other gifts, as a study has shown. In a series of experiments, it was found that the recipients are less happy about cash, even if the amount is twice as high compared to the financial value of another gift. So you're better off with an experience voucher!

This article was translated from Gentside DE.

Sources used:

-Inverse: 'Psychology of gift-giving'

-Journal of Consumer Research: 'Experiential Gifts Foster Stronger Social Relationships Than Material Gifts'