Compulsive Shopping

Dear Dr. LeCrone:

The approaching holidays are, on the one hand, very exciting to me, but there is a dark side to this season of “giving.” I have a terrible time controlling my spending! I find myself shopping every holiday sale, buying in bulk, and literally “maxing” out my credit cards. I need help badly because not only am I in debt, but I also feel out of control. My friends and family seem to think that I am a compulsive shopper. What do you think and what can I do?

S.F. from Minnesota

Dear Reader:

Not everyone who spends too much has a psychological problem, but a pattern of excessive spending may indicate behaviors that provide a temporary escape from psychological pain or distress. Compulsive shopping or spending can greatly impair interpersonal relationships. Family life and even job performance can be impacted by the behaviors associated with compulsive spending.

Compulsive spending is similar to other addictions such as substance abuse or gambling. Some compulsive shoppers often do so to relieve stress, boredom, anxiety, or depression. Individuals that are compulsive shoppers often report a “high” or “thrill” after a buying spree. The consequences of this behavior are not only financial but are also psychological.

Compulsive spenders may find great benefit by learning to delay the need for immediate gratification. Setting limits that includes including a budget for spending may help curb out of control spending. Impulse buyers should think hard about each purchase while questioning its worth and value in the long run. Compare prices and keep receipts of all items purchased. Itemize gifts and other purchases to ensure no duplication occurs. Avoid “window shopping” as it can lead to impulse purchases or buying out of want rather than need.

If the weekend sale ads or commercials on television during holidays are too alluring, simply throw them out or change the channel. Our society places great emphasis on materialism and a compulsive spender may be tempted to think that money can buy love. Compulsive spenders can find alternative ways to express care and affection for friends and family that do not center on buying anything. Consider valuing relationships not possessions.

Compulsive behaviors, like shopping or spending, may be brought under control with counseling. If your life is impaired by your shopping habits, think about what in life may really be missing.


Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright © 2005