For others, however, shopping can turn into a problem.
Impulsive buying and compulsive shopping are both shopping behaviors that can lead to feelings of regret and financial difficulties.
This article discusses the definitions of impulsive and compulsive shopping and the signs of each behavior.
Dan Dalton / Getty Images
It also covers what causes these problems and the steps people can take to manage their shopping.
What Is Impulsive Shopping?
Impulsive shopping involves buying items that a person was not planning to purchase.
Sometimes, these impulsive purchases can be pretty harmless if they are within a person’s budget.
Unfortunately, impulsive buying can also result in costly spending sprees that can wreak havoc on their finances.
Signs of Impulsive Shopping
Impulsive shopping is something that happens to most people on occasion.
Some signs of impulse shopping:
Research suggests that impulsive shopping increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Is Compulsive Shopping?
It involves a compulsive need to buy items, many of which arenotnecessary or needed.
Compulsive shopping often produces powerful feelings of shame, guilt, and remorse.
People who shop compulsively are also prone to financial, legal, and relationship problems because of overspending.
It often begins in the late teens or early twenties and may affect more women than men.
It feels great to purchase something you need or desire, especially if you find a bargain.
Additionally, the act of shopping releasesendorphinsanddopaminein the brain, creating pleasurable sensations.
This can cause people to feel compelled to engage in the same behaviors to re-experience those feelings.
Such effects may include financial difficulties, arguments with family members, and work-related problems.
People who engage in compulsive buying behavior are also more likely to fall into a pattern of addictive behavior.
They shop more and more in an attempt to stave off stress and anxiety.
This is how a shopping addiction develops.
How to Reduce Impulsive and Compulsive Shopping
Everyone experiences impulse buying from time to time.
Maintaining progress is essential since shopping is part of everyday life and cannot be avoided.
Dealing with compulsive shopping often requires a multidisciplinary approach involvingprofessional therapy, medication when indicated, and peer support.
A combination ofcognitive behavior therapyandantidepressantshas the best outcomes.Talking to a financial advisor may also be beneficial.
People experiencing compulsive spending would also benefit from talking to a healthcare provider and financial advisor.
Final Thoughts
Being able to recognize the differences between impulsive and compulsive shopping is essential.
While most people make impulsive buys sometimes, regular compulsive shopping is a sign of a more serious issue.
2007;6(1):14-18.
Black DW.Compulsive shopping: A review and update.Current Opinion in Psychology.
2022;46:101321. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101321
Faber R.Part 3: Consumer behavior: Impulsive and compulsive buying.
In: Sheth J, Malhotra N, eds.Wiley International Encyclopedia of Marketing.
