“Compulsive Buying Behavior Across Cultures: A Comparative Literature Review”

Abstract

The phenomena of compulsive purchasing behavior (CBB) is widely acknowledged and crosses cultural barriers, however it presents itself in many ways depending on the culture. The goal of this review of the literature is to emphasize the parallels and variations in the prevalence, causes, and effects of CBB by synthesizing the research that has already been done on the subject. The first section of the review defines compulsive shopping behavior as an overwhelming, recurring need to shop that causes discomfort or impairment. It looks at how cultural variables affect the development, maintenance, and expression of CBB, highlighting the importance of cultural values, social norms, and economic circumstances as key influences. To clarify their effects on CBB in various nations, the cultural characteristics of materialism, consumerism, and individualism vs. collectivism are investigated. Key findings from research undertaken in a variety of cultural contexts, including non-Western civilizations like Asia and the Middle East and Western nations like the United States and Europe, are identified through a comparative study. It goes over regional differences in CBB prevalence rates, the reasons people purchase, and the psychological processes that underlie compulsive purchasing behaviors. In addition, the analysis explores how media and advertising shape consumer behavior as well as cultural views of material goods and social standing. It examines the ways in which these cultural components support the emergence and maintenance of obsessive purchasing behaviors, highlighting the intricate relationship that exists between culture and consumer behavior.We address how these findings affect psychological theory, clinical practice, and public policy, emphasizing the need of culturally aware therapies and preventative measures. Comprehending the cultural variances in CBB enhances theoretical frameworks and provides guidance for focused therapies aimed at effectively addressing this behavioral addiction.