Cohn Publishes Op-ed on Bad Gifts

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution published an op-ed by Professor of Marketing and Management Deborah Y. Cohn, Ph.D., M.B.A., titled “That Nasty Gift Was No Accident.” The commentary, which highlights Cohn’s research into the five worst types of gifts, makes the case that meanspirited presents damage personal relationships and carry economic costs, with retailers incurring losses on unwanted, returned merchandise.

“If you find yourself on the receiving end of a painful, ill-intended gift this holiday season, you still have options. Of course, you can give it to someone who would appreciate it, donate it to charity, or store it in the closet and forget about it,” writes Cohn. “When all else fails, you might even be able to return it to the store and get something you want. Most importantly, avoid playing into the giver’s hand and providing them with the satisfaction of knowing you hated their bad present. That’s what they want.”