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Emotions related to time use in financial activities: Affective patterns in the US

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  • Giménez-Nadal, José Ignacio
  • Molina, José Alberto
  • Xiao, Jing Jian

Abstract

This study examines how individuals in the US allocate time to financial activities and how these activities relate to their well-being. Using data from the American Time Use Survey (ATUS), we find that financial tasks occupy a minimal share of daily time — averaging just 8.3 minutes — yet are associated with elevated stress and low happiness. Despite their negative emotional valence, financial activities are perceived as meaningful. Regression analyses reveal that time spent on financial tasks increases with education and income, and varies by gender, employment status, and race. Furthermore, affective experiences during financial activities differ significantly across sociodemographic lines: men and older individuals report more negative emotions, while higher education is linked to improved emotional outcomes. These findings allow us to test several hypotheses proposed in previous financial research and highlight the cognitive and emotional demands of everyday financial management.

Suggested Citation

  • Giménez-Nadal, José Ignacio & Molina, José Alberto & Xiao, Jing Jian, 2026. "Emotions related to time use in financial activities: Affective patterns in the US," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Finance, Elsevier, vol. 50(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:beexfi:v:50:y:2026:i:c:s2214635026000432
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbef.2026.101181
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