![](https://www.plusonline.nl/sites/plusonline/files/styles/pol_carousel/public/81860991.jpg?itok=8LXrbn63)
Hole in your hand
There is nothing wrong with a fun day of shopping. But when your whole life starts to revolve around making purchases, that’s a problem. It could mean that you are a shopping addict. Then you spend more time and money buying than you planned. Why do people have to buy? And what can you do about it?
A shopping addiction is more than just happy to spend money. People who are really addicted to shopping continue to buy. Even if the debts are mounting and it brings problems.
Characteristics of (purchase) addiction
- You can’t resist the urge to buy something.
- Before you shop, the tension builds.
- A feeling of relief after the purchase.
- You buy more and more expensive things.
- You hide purchases before others see them.
Effects
- Shopping addiction leads to social problems.
- It can put you in serious debt.
- In the end, you don’t think it makes sense to buy yourself.
Four types of shopping addiction
You have the comfort buyer, who wants to feel better by giving himself presents. Then you have the avid buyer; he very consciously buys a lot of the same products. Like a stamp collector.
The impulsive buyer buys based on what’s on display and is pulled into stores by “sale” posters. The compulsive buyer has a little bit of all three other buyers. He buys because he sees offers, searches for products and consoles himself with them.
Reasons for buying addiction
There are several reasons why people become addicted to shopping. a light depression occurs regularly. Shopping addicts often suffer from low self-esteem and try to boost this with their purchases.
The social contact with the sellers is good for them. They feel accepted by them. People who are sensitive to addictions are more likely to develop a shopping addiction.
Children are susceptible
Shopping addiction can develop early on. We live in a hectic time and as a parent you are often absent. Some parents feel guilty towards their children and instead of attention, these children get presents.
This gives children the signal that matter can make them happy. As a result, they can also buy off their happiness with things at a later age.
How do you deal with it?
You may have recognized yourself in this article. Then it is high time to give your account a rest and change it. Because shopping addiction often arises from a lack of self confidence, it is useful to start working on yourself.
Find alternatives to comfort yourself. Don’t buy something new until you need it, and before every purchase, think, “Do I really need this?” Talk about it with others, or with a psychologist.