Research into children's birthday parties suggests that party bag fillers are less about the items themselves and more about social signaling among parents.
: Roughly 90% of parents in some surveys admitted they dislike making goody bags but continue to do so because they feel it is "expected". Consumer Trends and "Plastic Tat"
: Many parents use mass-produced fillers to generate a "culture of sameness," avoiding the social risk of being perceived as an "exceptional" or "over-the-top" mother/parent.
: Parents often feel obligated to provide fillers because it is a deeply ingrained social tradition. It acts as a way for the child to reciprocate the generosity shown by guests.