Conventionally, shopping addicts are people who suffer from compulsive spending. Compulsive spending refers to a pattern of protracted continuous spending which is usually very difficult to stop, and it eventually results in adverse consequences. It is said to be a control disorder which can be likened to other forms of addiction disorders, which does not directly or indirectly require the use of a drug which causes intoxication.
For shopping addicts, typically, they would spend ample time thinking about going on shopping. Eventually, they set out to go for it, and they are most times usually anxious before they make a purchase. When they make the purchase, there is usually a feeling of euphoria and relief. Much later, the feeling of shame or guilt sets in. These are the phases which a shopping addict has to go through from time to time.
Shopping addiction is known to develop overtime, as it does not happen in an instant. It is usually affected by a good number of many factors, with the regular risk factors being gender and age, and young women are known to be those who are usually at the highest risk.
Basically, the four points below are typical of someone who regularly undergoes compulsive buying or can be regarded as a shopping addict.
- Anticipation: There is always this feeling to shop, it is something which cannot go away, as you cannot stop thinking about it.
- Preparations: When it comes to shopping, you usually put extra measures in place. You would make choices on where and when you should go. You would also decide on the cloth to wear, and even the credit card to be utilized. You would also find out that, you spend extra time checking up the latest fashion movements.
- Shopping: During the activity of shopping, you would realize that there is this great excitement within you, which you cannot seem to control.
- Spending: This is the phase which marks the end of the shopping addiction. After you have made your purchase, there is first a sign of relief, then a feeling of regret and dissatisfaction in yourself.