Ed Could Not Afford a New SUV After Losing His

Multiple Choice

Ed could not afford a new SUV after losing his job, but he nevertheless purchased one. After the purchase, he felt better about himself. This is an example of how, during times of downward mobility, acquisition and consumption can help:

A) protect self-worth.
B) achieve higher social status.
C) understand social fragmentation.
D) increase social panic.
E) decrease conspicuous waste.