> Every time my family had any money, they bought stuff. Not stuff we needed, but stupid crap. There has been research into why this happens. I don't remember

> Every time my family had any money, they bought stuff. Not stuff we needed, but stupid crap. There has been research into why this happens. I don't remember the author I read but the gist of it is, poverty conditions a person never to think long term. You spend all your mental energy on immediate needs. Food for today. Rent for this week. Money is never around for long. You know next week is going to suck no matter what, so if you come into some extra money you spend it on something immediately gratifying. Not necessarily alcohol or drugs, but like you say, stupid crap -- something that provides some immediate entertainment or escape but has no other benefit.