Americans see some benefits arising from the recession:

-         52% are forming stronger bonds with their spouses

-         63% have become more do-it-yourself

-         30% are volunteering more for charities

But what does all this mean for the American Dream?

Over the last ten years, the definition of the American Dream has become distorted and equated with consumerism and homeownership at any cost. Now, more people seem to be turning back to the Dream’s original meaning:

-         67% strongly believe that the American Dream is about the opportunity to achieve through education and hard work

-         60% it’s the liberty to do what we want

-         68% say the American Dream is still within their and their children’s reach

-         89% are proud to be American