Paradoxical tensions among consumers are making their behavior unpredictable and baffling many sellers, according to a report released Monday by a global strategy and management consulting firm.

Most people assume their anxiety is simply a personality trait, something they were born with or developed on their own terms ...

Unpredictable actions can be behavioral adaptations related to a previous psychological trauma. Individuals with a trauma history will often turn to alcohol or drugs as a means to self-medicate their ...

When consumers feel uncertain about the economy, retailers tend to get cautious too. Big companies such as Walmart and Target say shoppers are still buying—but consumer behavior this year looks ...