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How much do we really understand about our relationship with money and the power it holds over us? In The Psychology of Money, award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Claudia Hammond examines how everyday encounters illuminate our complex relationship with money and how a better understanding of it can help our wallets as well as our minds.

It starts early. Very young schoolchildren have little idea where money actually comes from or its true value - but they already know that it's 'special', clutching their piggy banks and purses. But even better for children is chocolate money.

Our childhood experiences and circumstances shape our attitudes to spending. Many of us hate talking about money but there are awkward occasions when we can't avoid it. Out for dinner with friends, having a great time? The food, wine and conversation flow freely - until the bill arrives: anxiety sets in. Splitting the bill evenly seems fair but what if you didn't have any wine or dessert and you picked the cheapest main course on the menu whilst others indulged? You might feel forced into keeping the peace and paying up. Psychologists call this "the unscrupulous diner's dilemma". If you're the one who's always taking the extra financial hit for your "mates" then take note to avoid coughing up - and propose you pay for your food before the starters arrive.

If you're shopping for a laptop or tablet this Christmas beware the display of three items - the most expensive one may be there to tempt you into buying the mid-priced item, the so-called compromise effect that might leave you out of pocket.

In this programme, Claudia Hammond explores some of the latest research into the psychology of money and reveals some simple and effective tricks that can help us all.