Two-thirds of parents say they are willing to go into debt to help their children fit in at school, according to a recent BadCredit.org study, revealing just how emotionally loaded and financially unsustainable the back-to-school season has become for millions of American families.
Americans are still feeling the pinch of inflation. Yet, despite the soaring costs of essentials, many American parents are prioritizing social comfort over responsible spending.
Instead of operating within a budget, parents are letting the fear of their children being left out drive their spending decisions. This, in turn, is causing some parents to spend beyond their budgets or lean on credit cards to finance back-to-school supplies.
According to the survey, parents increasingly feel a sense of obligation to shield their children from embarrassment or exclusion, no matter the cost.
Key highlights
- Debt for belonging: Two-thirds (66%) of parents say they would go into debt so their child feels like they fit in at school.
- Overspending to spare: 57% report overspending specifically to avoid disappointing their child.
- Budget talk gap: 59% haven’t discussed a back-to-school budget with their child (i.e., only 41% have had that conversation).
- Same supplies for all: Majority(86%) of parents believe all students should receive the same essential school supplies regardless of income.
- Free Supplies > Higher Tax: More than half (51%) say public schools should cover supplies, even if that means higher local taxes.
66% of Parents Would Go Into Debt So Their Kids Feel Like They Fit In at School
Key Takeaways
- Two-thirds (66%) of parents said they would go into debt just to help their child fit in at school.
- Most parents are spending without a plan, with 59% saying they have not discussed a budget with their child.
- More than half of parents (51%) say public schools should foot the bill for supplies, even if it means higher local taxes.
Read the full report: https://www.badcredit.org/studies/2025-back-to-school-survey/
