What Triggers Shopaholics to Overspend?

Lisa Franchi August 06, 2013

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Approximately 10 per cent of adults in Western countries have compulsive buying disorder, according to new research. But why do these people, often called shopaholics, keep on spending despite the financial, emotional and social consequences?

In a study published in the Journal of Economic Psychology, researchers at San Francisco State University found that the belief that new purchases will create a happier life fuel compulsive buying. The team surveyed over 1,600 people about money management, shopping habits and how much they value material possessions. Their analysis revealed that lack of money management predicted an individual’s compulsive spending behaviour, regardless of their personality, age, gender or income.

“A lot of research has shown that shopaholics tend to have materialistic values,” said Ryan Howell, Ph.D., the study lead investigator and associate professor of psychology at the university. “Our results explain why materialistic people shop compulsively.”

In the study, shopaholics reported buying items to “get a buzz” or improve their mood. These people also believed that purchases could change their life. For instance, they believe it could transform their appearance, earn them confidence and improve their relationships.

Credit cards make things worse

Out-of-control shopping was primarily linked to poor credit management, which includes not paying attention to credit card statements, not paying credit card bills on time, and exceeding credit limits.  According to the researchers, one reason why credit card triggers compulsive buying is because they allow consumers to separate the pleasure of buying from the pain of paying.

“Even if you are still materialistic and you have the desire to acquire more possessions, it’s how you manage your behaviour that counts. Our findings suggest that you can keep your shopping under control by paying attention to your credit card and checking in with yourself about whether you are shopping for emotional reasons.” Howell said.

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Why Do Shopaholics Continue to Overspend?