Purpose of Review
We summarized studies focusing on the associations between compulsive buying and temperament/personality traits in community and clinical samples published between 2010 and 2016.
Recent Findings
We found significant associations between compulsive buying (CB) and high levels of Behavioral Activation System (BAS) reactivity, Novelty Seeking, and Positive Urgency (promotion focus), as well as high levels of Neuroticism, Emotional Instability, and Negative Urgency (prevention focus). Finally, the results showed negative relationships between CB and lack of Effortful Control, Self-Control, Perseverance, and Premeditation.
Summary
CB seems to be driven by positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement as well as a breakdown in self-regulation. Longitudinal studies should investigate the development of CB throughout time, and experimental studies should examine whether individuals with CB suffer from a general vs. a cue-specific breakdown in self-regulation. Psychotherapy should focus on the training of self-control as well as the development of behavioral alternatives to regulate emotions.