Doubts about economic recovery put consumers even more on the defensive.

The percentage of Americans who feel their financial situation is worse now than a year ago level off at 55% over the past three months.

Consumers strike a balance between buying what they need and preparing to weather future economic woes.

Some cracks are appearing in consumer resolve to resist spending...

Consumers are maneuvering to buy what they need without jeopardizing their chances of surviving until the economic crisis ends.