Increase in Inflation is Reportedly Affecting Sexual Activities and Social Lifestyles
In a recent survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of the classified ads platform, Kleinanzeigen.de, it has been revealed that inflation in Germany has significantly impacted people's daily lives, social behavior, and psychological well-being.
The survey found that more than half of adults in Germany are going out less to restaurants, cinemas, or theaters, indicating a reduction in discretionary spending due to financial stress. This, in turn, affects lifestyle choices such as dining out, traveling, and entertainment.
Heightened concern about the future contributes to anxiety and reduced well-being among many Germans. Over a quarter (26 percent) of adults feel more anxious and stressed than before inflation.
Social interactions are also being strained or altered due to financial constraints. For example, people are meeting less frequently in costly settings or avoiding social gatherings that involve expenses. Young adults aged 18 to 24 are most likely to say that their friendships have suffered due to doing less with friends.
Adaptation behaviors such as increased use of second-hand goods platforms (like Kleinanzeigen.de) to cope with rising living costs are also common.
Interestingly, around a third (34 percent) of respondents said that inflation has not affected their well-being. However, seven percent have postponed their desire to have children due to the economic situation, and among those aged 25 to 44, one in ten has adjusted their family planning.
Seven percent of respondents reported that their love life has deteriorated due to financial stress, with men and those aged 25 to 44 particularly affected.
In terms of specific prices, the Federal Statistical Office reported that food prices have increased by 2.0 percent, services by 3.3 percent, and energy prices have decreased by about 3.5 percent compared to last year. However, three-quarters (78 percent) of respondents believe that food prices have increased compared to last year. More than half (53 percent) of respondents say they have noticed an increase in energy prices.
It's worth noting that these findings typically highlight broader societal effects of inflation beyond economic indicators, showing how it influences interpersonal dynamics and quality of life.
For precise figures or direct quotes from the specific YouGov survey, we recommend checking Kleinanzeigen.de’s official communications or reports from YouGov, as these are the primary sources for the detailed survey insights.
- The survey suggests that increased financial stress in Germany has led to a decrease in discretionary spending on lifestyle choices such as dining out, traveling, and entertainment.
- Financial constraints are also impacting relationships, with seven percent of respondents reporting that their love life has deteriorated due to financial stress.
