What are the major factors that have affected U.S. household consumption since the recession in 2001?

Question

What are the major factors that have affected U.S. household consumption since the recession in 2001?

Answer 1

Household consumption has been flat or diminished.  Income and employment have been stagnant or declining.  Economic trends indicate minimal growth.

Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are a drain on human and material resources.

Energy producers have increased the percentage of household budgets for utilities and fuel.