A STUDY OF MALADAPTIVE ABNORMAL TENDENCIES AMONG COMPULSIVE BUYERS

Abstract

A causal comparative research design was used to assess pathological buying tendencies among consumers. The sample (N= 1160) consisted of men (n=416) and women (n=744) with age ranging from 17 to 65. The compulsive buying disorder scale was used to screen participants for maladaptive buying behavior. Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21, and Rosenberg SelfEsteem Scale (RSES) were supplemented to assess the level of psychological distress and the level of self-esteem respectively. Approximately, 7.24% (84 out of 1160) were found as compulsive buyers, with women having a higher prevalence. Factors associated with pathological buying included persistent distressful obsessions, lack of resistance, compulsions related to buying, impairments in personal and social functioning, and financial implications. According to results Compulsive buying disorder is prevalent in 7.2% of individuals, and is influenced by gender, with women being more materialistic and reactive shoppers. It is found more prevalent among depressed individuals and those with low self-esteem. Future research should explore compulsive buying's developmental trajectory, considering context, personality, education, and socio-economic status. Psycho-education is crucial for prevention.