The true value of New Year’s gifts: Insights from psychologist
As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, the world bursts into celebration. Fireworks illuminate the skies, champagne glasses clink, and resolutions are made. However, beneath the glittering veneer of these festivities, a growing concern emerges: is New Year’s Eve losing its cultural significance and becoming just an excuse to receive gifts, Kazinform News Agency reports.
Psychologist Nadezhda Kucheruk reminds us that the true impact of a gift isn’t measured by its price tag or initial reaction but by the love and thoughtfulness behind it.
The dynamics of children’s gift requests have undergone a significant transformation, according to child psychologist Nadezhda Kucheruk. “Today’s children are far more demanding and specific in their gift requests compared to previous generations,” Kucheruk explains.
Modern children’s expectations have escalated dramatically, influenced by a mix of media, popular culture, and advertising. In earlier times, children were content with simple, heartfelt presents such as a bag of sweets or a basic toy.
“A few decades ago, a small bag of candy or a simple toy was enough to bring immense joy to a child,” Kucheruk recalls. These modest gestures created lasting memories.
Today, however, children’s requests have become far more specific and demanding. Kucheruk attributes this shift to the pervasive influence of animated movies, video games, and trending characters heavily marketed to young audiences.
“Children are now exposed to a constant stream of advertisements that shape their desires and expectations,” she adds.
This trend has placed considerable pressure on parents, many of whom go to great lengths to fulfill their children’s expectations. “It’s becoming increasingly common for parents to take out loans or overextend themselves financially just to buy expensive gifts,” says Kucheruk, comparing this behavior to similar practices observed in countries like the United States. Such financial strain raises questions about the sustainability and impact of these decisions on family well-being.
The types of gifts children receive can have a profound effect on their development. Kucheruk emphasizes the importance of choosing presents thoughtfully.
“Gadgets are a popular choice, but they come with potential downsides,” she warns. “Excessive screen time can lead children to retreat into virtual worlds, limiting their social interactions and real-world experiences.”
Conversely, development-oriented gifts—such as toys that enhance motor skills, logical thinking, and creativity—can contribute positively to a child’s growth, provided that the parent is also involved in the games.
“A well-chosen educational toy can spark curiosity and support a child’s learning process. But it is only with the participation of the parents that a child’s attention can be sustained,” explains Kucheuk.
Beyond material gifts, the tradition of preparing for holidays together holds immense value. “Shared family activities, like decorating the house or selecting gifts together, create a sense of unity and emotional comfort,” says Kucheruk. These collaborative efforts foster a strong sense of belonging and reinforce familial bonds.
When families create a positive and loving atmosphere during the holiday season, children are more likely to carry these traditions into their own future families. “Such traditions instill in children a sense of responsibility and emotional stability, which they will likely replicate in their adult lives,” Kucheruk notes.
While children’s excitement often centers around the gifts themselves, the absence of a present can leave lasting feelings of disappointment.
“All children are waiting for gifts, and it would be upsetting if there were no gift under the tree at all. But if a gift is made from the heart, with love, then even if the initial reaction isn’t “Wow,” like, “I wanted something else,” the child will eventually see it differently. The love put into the gift will still play its role. The first impression might not be great, but the second impression will be entirely different,” Kucheruk explains.
As the sparkle of New Year’s Eve celebrations fades, it’s clear that the significance of this holiday extends far beyond the exchange of gifts. While modern pressures have heightened expectations and transformed gift-giving into a sometimes-burdensome ritual, the essence of the season lies in fostering connections and creating meaningful traditions.
Earlier Kazinform News Agency shared how people around the world celebrate the New Year’s Eve.
