A model of compulsive buying: Dysfunctional beliefs and self-regulation of compulsive buyers

In this study, we applied a qualitative approach in order to examine the beliefs of compulsive buyers and decipher the processes of compulsive buying. Participants were recruited via online postings, were classified as compulsive buyers using a screening questionnaire, and were asked to complete individual in-depth interviews. Content analysis was performed in order to identify participants’ concepts and subconcepts regarding compulsive buying. To develop a model of compulsive buying we identified 21 subconcepts, which were synthesized into 6 concepts: deprivation, stimulation, response, compulsive spending, dysfunctional beliefs, and self-regulation. The results indicate that belief systems and self-regulation processes affect compulsive buying behaviors.