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The biggest shopping season of the year drives many to the mall with extensive gift lists. But for some, this spending spirit buys more than they bargained for…a dysfunctional relationship with retail and over-extended finances.
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University of Florida psychologists say spending that spins out of control can be a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder. During the holidays, compulsive shoppers may relieve over-anxious feelings about having enough presents by purchasing more than necessary. Experts say the average person can become a holiday “shop-a-holic” as the gift-giving tradition triggers stockpiling of goods and gadgets. But the consequences are anything but merry… holiday spending sprees can yield unmanageable debts, leading to personal and financial ruin. And this buying behavior could have even larger consequences this winter, as wallets get stretched by higher home heating costs.
Dr. Eric Storch / UF Psychologist:
“One of the fears that I would have is that this will throw off people’s calculations for their budget. And so, what they’ve traditionally spent each year on gifts for family members will have a slightly different impact because the belt has been tightened.”
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Behavior experts say binge buying is on the rise with the popularity of huge outlet stores, bulk packaging and Internet shops. They recommend leaving the credit card at home for some of the holiday shopping and carrying a limited amount of cash. One of the major signs of problem shopping is when spending exceeds one’s income and starts to negatively affect family members. If so, professional counseling can be a helpful and wise investment.
Dr. Eric Storch / UF Psychologist:
“The key point is to understand when this is problematic, versus when this is just getting into the spirit of the season. And one way that you can keep that in mind is when you’re taxing the family resources beyond the point at which it’s simply gift giving.”
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From the University of Florida Health Science Center, I’m Eva Egensteiner.
