The giving of gifts is said to be one of the oldest human activities that pre-dates civilisation. It was used to show love and affection towards another. The bestowing of gifts was also inferred as a status symbol between tribe leaders and clans in appreciation of contributions etc. In Medieval age, gifts were used to secure personal favour of the king or show allegiance in war. Gifts were also presented in betrothals as in dowries and cattle. Today, gift giving is part of everyday culture and given for all sorts of occasions to express a variety of things.
The psychology behind gift giving is that it is rewarding, for both the giver and receiver. It allows people to connect and expresses their feelings and emotions which they want to share with the recipient.
Making connections with people is said to give a sense of purpose and a feeling that enlightens the soul; it is said to bring out the best in us.
There is a saying “It is better to give than receive” - to which considerable amounts of research have been done on the feelings of wellbeing that occur when we give gifts to those we care about. Some of the reasons why gift giving has stood the test of time is because it makes both giver and receiver feel happy, it improves their state of minds, it create greater social connection, and it is contagious.
Happy giving and gifting!
