What economic phase is often accompanied by high unemployment and low consumer confidence?

The economic phase that is often accompanied by high unemployment and low consumer confidence is a recession. During a recession, which is characterized by a decline in economic activity, businesses may reduce their workforce due to decreased demand for goods and services. This leads to higher unemployment rates as people lose their jobs and struggle to find new employment.

Additionally, consumer confidence tends to fall during a recession because individuals and households may face financial uncertainty, leading them to cut back on spending. With lower consumer spending, businesses face further challenges, which can perpetuate the cycle of economic decline. This lack of confidence impacts overall economic recovery, making it difficult for the economy to stabilize and grow.

In contrast, expansion refers to a phase of economic growth with increasing employment and consumer confidence, while recovery indicates a rebound from a recession, moving towards improvement, and peak represents the highest point of economic activity before a downturn begins.