New survey reveals effects of current economic condition on Americans relationships

Expert Shares Advice for Putting the ‘Spark’ Back into Your Relationships

No doubt about it, the economic downturn has definitely put a strain on most Americans’ pocketbooks, but according to a new survey(i), it is also having an effect on Americans’ personal relationships, changing how they keep them fresh and healthy.

While Americans seemingly value their partnerships with others, most aren’t going the extra mile to help keep the spark alive. In fact, 78 percent of adults surveyed said they now spend about the same or less time and effort maintaining their relationship with their significant other compared to before the economy turned. In a society where the divorce rate hovers near 50 percent(ii), even in more fruitful economic times, it pays to invest a little extra time and effort towards life’s significant relationships.

Beyond the unions that Americans have with their significant others, consumers spend a large portion of their lives in relationships with valued objects – like the ones they have with their cars. In fact, on average, Americans spend more than 900 hours a year in their cars(iii). Although the economic strain affects each of these relationships differently, the survey revealed that the strain Americans experience with their significant others is similarly reflected in their relationships with their vehicles.

Nearly four out of five survey respondents said that they still love driving their vehicles, and an equal number said they may keep their cars longer than originally expected given the current economic conditions. However, only one out of 10 said they now spend more time maintaining their cars compared to before the economy turned. Similarly, a mere two out of 10 said they are spending more time on their personal relationships now than before the economy turned.

Relationship expert and psychotherapist, Dr. Robi Ludwig says that during tough financial times, consumers are prone to revisit their existing partnerships and assets and may discover that they have taken things for granted over time.

“In the beginning of any relationship, people and objects are often looked at through rose-colored glasses,” says Dr. Ludwig. “There is an illusion that the things we rely on and care about will always be there and work for us.”

According to Dr. Ludwig, our lives are made up of a series of relationships that are just as dependant on us as we are on them and they all require unconditional love, time and attention.

“Over the course of time, it’s important that we embrace the realities and flaws of our existing relationships, focus on their strengths and embrace the fact that the little things we do go a long way,” says Dr. Ludwig.

To help Americans put “the spark” back into their valued relationships- whether it’s with their significant others, vehicles, or both, Dr. Ludwig offers some simple tips to help keep them running younger for longer – without combusting your time or your wallet.

Renew your vow to love your partner unconditionally. According to the BP ‘Renew Your Vows and Valves Survey,’ less than 10 percent of the married adults surveyed have taken the time to renew their vows. Dr. Ludwig insists that you don’t have to walk down the aisle again to recite your vows – a simple “I love you” says it all. Or rewrite your vows on a piece of paper and recite them to each other over dinner.
Be thoughtful and supportive. If you know your significant other is running late for work, start their car for them in the morning. This is especially nice during the colder months. Compliments and daily greetings are also appreciated.
Ditch the mobile devices every now and then. Set aside some time to spend together, whether it’s over coffee in the morning, or taking a leisurely drive in the evening to wind down – and leave your cell phones, laptops and other mobile devices out of the equation to allow for decent conversation.
Record important relationship-related dates in your calendar. Be mindful of your anniversary date or your partner’s birthday and extend a thoughtful gesture, without breaking the bank. According to the survey, 55 percent of adults will spend less money this year on birthday or anniversary gifts as a result of the economic crisis.  Instead of a big ‘to-do,’ cook dinner or write a home-made love note.

Seventy-three percent of those surveyed said they felt excited, proud or accomplished when they first purchased their car. Dr. Ludwig points out that Americans are reliant on a car for the pragmatics and enjoyments of life, but that same car is not going to continue working for them in the long run without proper care in the short-term.

“While your significant other relies on you to love them unconditionally, a car relies on you for regular check-ups and maintenance too,” says Dr. Ludwig. “That means that just as you renew your ‘vows’ or commitment to your significant other, it also pays to renew your ‘vows,’ or in this case, ‘valves’ with your vehicle.”

Nearly 80 percent of survey respondents said that given the current state of the economy, they may keep their cars longer than originally expected; and overall, a relationship with a car is a long-term investment for most of those surveyed (68 percent plan on keeping their vehicle for more than five years). But despite the desire for longevity, 90 percent of adults surveyed said they spend the same or less time maintaining their cars compared to before the economy turned.

However, by following a few simple tips from BP, Americans can pledge their love to their cars and vow to help them run younger for longer.

Run your car through a neighborhood car wash once a week. Dust, debris, salt and sludge can accumulate on the outside of your vehicle throughout the year. Taking your car through a car wash will protect the paint and keep it looking shiny and clean.
Check the air pressure in your tires each season. Remember to inspect tread depth and sidewalls for hairline cracks or any signs of deterioration. Be sure to replace your tires when the tread wears down to 1/16 of an inch.
Fill up with a quality fuel. At the pump, be sure to fill up with a quality fuel like BP gasoline with Invigorate to help your car run younger for longer .
Replenish fluids. To ensure a smoother ride, check the level of all your car’s fluids weekly and replenish when needed.

(i) The survey interviewed 1,001 adults ages 30 – 59 living in the United States, who own or lease a car and are married, partnered or living with a significant other. The survey was conducted during a four-day period starting July 30, 2009 by Richard Day Research. The margin of error for a random sample of this size is +/- 3 percent at the 95 percent confidence level

(ii) Divorcerate.org. “It is frequently reported that the divorce rate in America is 50%. This data is not accurately correct, however, it is reasonably close to actual. The Americans for Divorce Reform estimates that ‘Probably, 40 or possibly even 50 percent of marriages will end in divorce if current trends continue.’ which is actually a projection.”

(iii) 2003 Arbitron In-Car Survey conducted by Edison Media Research

Source: BP