COMPULSIVE BUYING DISORDER (CBD)

Mety Tri Nurnuzulawati., S.Psi., M.Psi, Psikolog

Compulsive Buying Disorder, also known as compulsive shopping or shopping addiction, is a behavioral addiction characterized by an irresistible urge to shop and make purchases, often resulting in financial and personal problems. Individuals with CBD experience a chronic, compulsive need to shop, whether online or in physical stores, regardless of the negative consequences it may bring. This comprehensive explanation will delve into the causes, types, symptoms, treatment, and provide references to help you understand Compulsive Buying Disorder better.

CAUSES

The exact causes of Compulsive Buying Disorder are complex and may involve a combination of factors:

1. Psychological Factors: Some individuals may use shopping as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Shopping provides temporary relief from negative emotions.

2. Neurobiological Factors: Research suggests that the brain's reward system is involved in CBD. Shopping can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reinforcing the behavior.

3. Environmental Factors: Cultural and societal factors, such as consumerism and the ease of online shopping, can contribute to the development of CBD.

4. Personality Traits: Certain personality traits, such as impulsivity and perfectionism, may make individuals more susceptible to CBD.

SYMPTOMS

Compulsive Buying Disorder is characterized by a pattern of behaviors and symptoms, including:

1. Frequent and Excessive Shopping: Frequent and repetitive episodes of shopping that go beyond what is needed or can be afforded.

2. Loss of Control: A persistent inability to control or stop shopping, despite the desire to do so.

3. Financial Consequences: Accumulation of significant debt, financial problems, or strained relationships due to overspending.

4. Emotional Distress: Feelings of guilt, shame, or regret after shopping sprees, as well as anxiety or restlessness when attempting to resist the urge to shop.

5. Compulsive Hoarding: A tendency to accumulate large quantities of items, even if they are not used or needed.

6. Hiding Shopping Habits: Efforts to conceal the extent of shopping activities from family and friends.

7. Decline in Functioning: Impaired social, occupational, or academic functioning due to excessive shopping.

TYPES

Compulsive Buying Disorder doesn't have specific subtypes, but the presentation of symptoms can vary among individuals. Some people may shop primarily online, while others may focus on physical stores. The types and categories of items purchased may also vary widely.

TREATMENT

Treatment for Compulsive Buying Disorder typically involves psychotherapy (talk therapy) and may include other therapeutic approaches as well:

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and challenge the irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to compulsive shopping behavior. It also teaches practical strategies to manage impulses and develop healthier spending habits.

2. Psychodynamic Therapy: Psychodynamic approaches explore the underlying emotional and psychological factors driving compulsive shopping behavior. It can help individuals gain insight into their shopping triggers.

3. Group Therapy: Group therapy can provide a supportive environment for individuals with CBD to share experiences, learn from others, and practice coping skills.

4. Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety.

5. Financial Counseling: Financial counseling can assist individuals in creating a budget, managing debt, and developing financial responsibility.

6. Self-Help and Support Groups: Joining support groups or self-help programs like Debtors Anonymous or Shopaholics Anonymous can provide valuable peer support.

7. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Learning relaxation and mindfulness techniques can help individuals manage stress and anxiety without turning to shopping.

Recovery from Compulsive Buying Disorder is possible with the right treatment and support. The effectiveness of treatment may vary from person to person, and it's important for individuals with CBD to seek professional help.

REFERENCES

1. McElroy, S. L., Keck, P. E., & Phillips, K. A. (1995). Kleptomania, compulsive buying, and binge-eating disorder. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 56(Suppl 4), 14–26.

2. Grant, J. E., Odlaug, B. L., & Schreiber, L. R. (2014). Phenomenology and epidemiology of pathological gambling. In Pathological Gambling: A Clinical Guide to Treatment (pp. 17–32). American Psychiatric Publishing.

3. Koran, L. M., Faber, R. J., Aboujaoude, E., Large, M. D., & Serpe, R. T. (2006). Estimated prevalence of compulsive buying behavior in the United States. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 163(10), 1806–1812. doi:10.1176/ajp.2006.163.10.1806.

4. Black, D. W. (2007). A review of compulsive buying disorder. World Psychiatry, 6(1), 14–18.