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The Conversation
The Conversation
Robert Dempsey, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Manchester Metropolitan University

Why you feel pressure to adhere to Christmas traditions – and how to reject the ones you don’t like

Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock

It’s December, the weather’s turning, and the holidays are fast approaching. You’ve got to find the perfect gift for your partner, parents or that weird relative you only see once a year. At work, there’s the secret Santa for a colleague you barely know, and the office party you’d rather avoid.

Maybe you’re planning Christmas lunch – is it turkey and all the trimmings? There’s travel to sort out, dodging the rush hour trains or traffic. You might feel obliged to appear merry, even if you’re already exhausted.

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