But the latest Michigan survey, done for Fidelity Investments, shows a turnaround.

In the Michigan survey, two questions focus on the respondents' financial situation.

Over the next five years, according to the Michigan survey, consumers expect prices to rise by an average of 2.8 percent a year.

Analysts said the Michigan survey underscored the strength in job and income growth, which will likely keep inflation fears simmering.

The Michigan survey, while offering greater "anonymity," still depends on the honesty of the respondents.

The Michigan survey works from a base of 100 percent in 1966 and is compiled through a telephone survey of 500 households.

As many as 3 percent of eighth graders said they had used steroids, according to the Michigan survey.

The March results of the Michigan survey, which are also strong, will be published Friday.

The Michigan survey is considered by some economists to be a better measure of consumer confidence than the Conference Board's.

The nation's spirits have yet to revive from last fall's recessionary levels, according to the closely watched University of Michigan survey.