The science behind snow shopping and why people stock up on food, supplies
(WWBT) - As the chance for snow increases, the number of bread loaves on grocery store shelves begins to decrease. What is it that drives people to the store before snow? Behavioral health specialists explain it is a primitive response.
Richard Grosse, a licensed clinical social worker with Dominion Behavioral Healthcare, explains it comes down to fear and control. "We're afraid during a natural disaster that we'll come up short and that may impact our quality of life or our safety," added Grosse.
People are scared of not knowing how long the snow will last, how much the area will get, and how long they may be without food.
Grosse explained since you can't control the weather, you cope by controlling what you can. This is seen in preparing and shopping for supplies. It isn't just groceries. Local hardware stores are running out of salt and shovels.
Hearing of a shortage may spur it along and urge even more people to go to the store.
Since something is running out, explained Grosse, that item becomes more valuable to you. That could explain why once the bread starts disappearing, it goes even quicker because the lack of it makes it more desirable for you to buy.
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