Genealogists might notice that there are certain habits that seem to run in your family. Some of these things are learned, and some seem to have a genetic basis. Have you noticed that some of your relatives have a tendency to steal ketchup packets, or sugar packets, from restaurants? There could be several reasons why they do that.
When you go to a restaurant with your family, you will notice that the restaurant has put out certain things that you can use without being charged for them. Often, this includes things like the little packets of sugar, (or sugar alternatives), that are on your table. It could include small packets of ketchup, salt, or pepper that are located near the counter. Fast food restaurants often have plastic forks, knives, and spoons that you can use.
Most people realize that customers are supposed to use these little “freebies” while they are dining at the restaurant. They aren’t actually supposed to load dozens of packets into their pockets, and take them home with them. However, many people are doing exactly that anyway. The reasons behind it could have something to do with genetics, or could be influenced by the generation that the person belongs to.
People who grew up during the Great Depression were taught to salvage things. They needed to hold onto things, because they might not get another one anytime soon. They learned how to use things more than once, and to store things away “just in case you might need it”.
Your relatives who lived through the Great Depression may be stealing sugar packets because it gives them a sense of comfort and security to know that they will have something saved for when times are tough. Those of you who grew up with grandparents, or parents, who brought home extra ketchup packets from restaurants may have learned that behavior. This could be why you find yourself doing it today!
Is your relative part of Generation X or Generation Y? This group has been described as people who were born between 1964 and the mid-1990’s.
According to Kristene Doyle, who is a psychologist and the Associate Executive Director of the Albert Ellis Institute, many people who were born into these generations have a strong sense of entitlement. She says that this group has gotten used to being told that they are “perfect”, and that they deserve to get what they want. In short, they are stealing ketchup packets because they want them, and believe that the packets are for them.
There also could be genetic factors that influence your relatives to steal the “freebies” from restaurants. Hording is a type of obsessive- compulsive disorder. In general, people who become hoarders are keeping items like sugar packets because having them gives them some control over their feelings of anxiety.
Image by Rex Roof on Flickr