Compulsive buying is a mental disorder, say docs

Hyderabad: Compulsive buying behaviour or compulsive buying disorder is not simply an urge to be a shopaholic, but, rather, is a mental health condition associated with low self-esteem and low self-confidence, say experts. The individual continues to engage in this behaviour despite the negative consequences that may arise from excessive spending, such as financial problems, social isolation, relationship issues etc.” Research indicates that women are more prone to compulsive shopping compared to men, possibly due to societal and cultural expectations related to gender roles and consumerism. Psychologists say accessibility to the internet, social media, credit cards, online shopping, “CBSD can be triggered or exacerbated by negative emotional states such as stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Compulsive shopping is observed frequently among individuals diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, hoarders and other impulse control disorders.