Causes of Compulsive Buying Disorder
Compulsive Buying Disorder (CBD) is an uncontrollable urge to shop, often leading to excessive, expensive, and time-consuming retail behavior. In our previous edition (June 2015), we discussed how to identify a compulsive buyer. You can still catch up on our website: www.namfisa.com.na.
In this edition, we focus on the underlying causes of compulsive buying, using a real-world example to illustrate how emotional and psychological factors can drive financial behavior.
A Case Study: Monica
Monica appears to be independent, responsible, and confident. She keeps her room tidy, respects her grandparents, and earns good grades. But beneath this strong exterior lies a sensitive, impulsive, and emotionally vulnerable young woman.
On a windy Saturday morning, Monica decides to go for a drive. Standing in front of her three vehicles—Gorgeous Giulia, Grey Dolphin, and Polo Vivo—she calls her friend Cheezy for some window shopping.
As they drive down Independence Avenue, Cheezy mentions a car expo at the Showgrounds. They divert to take a look.
At the expo, Monica becomes visibly anxious and distracted. She spots her dream car, gets behind the wheel, and despite Cheezy’s caution, falls for the “Instant Approval” offer. By Monday morning, she’s proudly driving the new car—yet another impulsive purchase.
What Cheezy doesn’t know is Monica’s emotional history.
On a windy Saturday morning, Monica decides to go for a drive. Standing in front of her three vehicles—Gorgeous Giulia, Grey Dolphin, and Polo Vivo—she calls her friend Cheezy for some window shopping.
As they drive down Independence Avenue, Cheezy mentions a car expo at the Showgrounds. They divert to take a look.
At the expo, Monica becomes visibly anxious and distracted. She spots her dream car, gets behind the wheel, and despite Cheezy’s caution, falls for the “Instant Approval” offer. By Monday morning, she’s proudly driving the new car—yet another impulsive purchase.
What Cheezy doesn’t know is Monica’s emotional history.
The Root of the Problem
Monica’s compulsive buying behavior is rooted in a difficult childhood:
What Causes Compulsive Buying?
Research, including work by Adrian Furnham, Ph.D., identifies the following causes:
