Introduction
Compulsive buying disorder (CBD) is a disorder that leads to excessive shopping habits. It is characterized by shopping for unneeded or unwanted items that lead to distress or impairment. People with compulsive buying disorder generally experience feelings of gratification or excitement while shopping. However, this feeling is followed by guilt, remorse, or anxiety. This disorder has a lifetime prevalence of 5.8 percent in the general population of the United States; however, it occurs worldwide. Most patients clinically observed are women (approximately 80 percent), though this gender difference might not be exact.
Patients with CBD show an obsession with shopping. They have pre-purchase anxiety and get a sense of relief after the purchase. Compulsive shopping disorder is believed to run in families. These families generally have a history of mood and substance use disorders. Compulsive buying disorder is related to significant psychiatric comorbidity, especially mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, or substance use disorders. There are no particular or standard treatments available. Studies on psychopharmacologic treatment are being actively conducted, and promising group cognitive-behavioral models are being developed.
What Is Compulsive Buying Disorder?
Compulsive buying disorder (CBD) was first clinically documented in the early 20th century by Bleuler and Kraepelin, after which it was included in their textbooks. Compulsive buying disorder did not get enough attention throughout the 20th century except among consumer behaviorists and psychoanalysts. However, it received interest in the early 1990s when clinical case series from three independent research groups were documented. The disorder has now been described globally. The proper classification of CBD is still debatable. Certain studies have listed CBD as an addictive disorder, while others have associated it with obsessive-compulsive disorder, and some consider it a mood disorder. People with CBD are occupied with shopping and spending. These individuals spend significant time on these behaviors. Individuals with CBD usually show an increased level of urge or anxiety that can only be satisfied when a purchase is made.
Generally, individuals with CBD shop by themselves. However, some individuals will shop with friends who might share their interest in shopping. CBD is considered a private pleasure, which can lead to embarrassment if a person who is not interested in shopping accompanies them. Shopping can be done at any place, varying from high fashion department stores to consignment shops or garage sales. CBD is not influenced by the individual's income. People with a low income can still be entirely preoccupied with shopping and spending; however, their level of income will restrict them from shopping from expensive stores.
The items often purchased by an individual with CBD include:
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Clothing.
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Shoes.
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Compact discs.
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Jewelry.
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Cosmetics.
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Household items.
Although the items purchased by compulsive shoppers are usually not individually costly, many buy in huge quantities, resulting in out-of-control spending. Patients often report purchasing a product based on its attractiveness or because it was on sale.
What Are the Causes of Compulsive Buying Disorder?
CBD can have a number of underlying causes:
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Psychological factors like low self-esteem.
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Anxiety.
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Desire to alleviate stress.
Further, environmental factors like easy access to credit cards, social influences, or exposure to advertising and media promoting consumerism can also lead to the development of CBD.
The age of onset usually coincides with the age at which people first start using their credit accounts. It has clinical characteristics similar to classical addictive disorders, including compulsive preoccupation, craving, loss of control, and negative consequences of shopping.
What Are the Phases of Compulsive Buying Disorder?
Compulsive buying disorder has been classified into four distinct phases:
1) Anticipation: In this first phase, the individual develops thoughts, urges, or preoccupations for having a particular item or with the act of shopping.
2) Preparation: In the second phase, the individual prepares for spending and shopping. This will involve decisions on when and where to go and even which credit cards to use. The individual might have also performed thorough research about sale items, new fashions, or new shops.
3) Shopping: The third phase includes the actual shopping, which is extremely exciting for individuals with compulsive buying disorder.
4) Spending: Finally, the behavior is completed with a purchase, usually followed by a sense of disappointment with oneself for spending money.
What Is the Treatment of Compulsive Buying Disorder?
Treatment for compulsive buying disorder usually includes a combination of therapy, support groups, and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is used to help individuals realize and challenge their irrational thoughts and behaviors related to overspending and shopping. Financial counseling can also be helpful in addressing the practical aspects of managing money and reducing debt. In certain cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might be prescribed to manage underlying mood or anxiety disorders.
If an individual is struggling with compulsive buying disorder, it is extremely essential to get help from a qualified mental health professional. With proper management and support, individuals with compulsive buying disorders can understand how to regain control over their shopping practices and improve their overall quality of life. Further, support groups and online resources help provide beneficial peer support and guidance for individuals facing the challenges of CBD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is regarded as a promising method of management. Future research on CBD must target the etiologic mechanisms and psychological and pharmacological treatments. Apart from treatment, education, such as learning new coping skills, media literacy instruction, public policy efforts, and parental modeling of proper buying behavior, can be helpful for those with CBD.
Conclusion
Compulsive buying disorder is a severe and often unrecognized condition that can have serious effects on individuals' lives. By increasing awareness and understanding of CBD, better support for the affected individuals can be provided. It also helps them with the resources and assistance they need to overcome this disorder. With proper treatment and support, individuals with CBD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead a normal life free from the addiction of compulsive shopping.
