How has the economic crisis affected the American dream? Have American behavior and values shifted in the past year? The third
MetLife Study of the American Dream set out to determine American attitudes and perceptions in light of our current economic situation and the ongoing erosion of traditional corporate and social safety nets. The study surveyed a cross-section of U.S. adults, in all generations and ethnic groups, to find out how lives have changed—and how the American dream itself has changed—in the past year.
The results show an American dream that has been revised, not reversed. Americans are resetting their priorities, and the dream is now buoyed by pragmatism rather than consumerism. While Americans are anxious about their finances and the national economy, most are still optimistic that they can achieve the dream—a redefined American dream with a greater focus on family, marriage, and financial security.
Other key findings of the study are:
While many Americans are flying without a safety net, more recognize its importance and are saving more, spending less, and thinking more about their life goals.
Work is the linchpin holding the dream together. Half of Americans surveyed report they could survive only one month financially after a job loss.
There is a newfound appreciation for workplace benefits. Employees value the role of employers in helping to build their personal financial safety nets.
Americans are placing a premium on trust, with greater demand for predictable returns and guarantees.
See the full picture of the American dream in 2009:
Or, view the highlights or read the official press release.
As Featured on The McLaughlin Group
Rebooting the American Dream. Shifted. Altered. Not Deleted.
