hsmf 687 Please rewrite paper without plagiarism assign.pdf

Running head: WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 1

Women in Counseling: Shopping Addictions

Latisha Williams

Liberty University

HSMF 687-D01

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 2

Abstract

This research paper will focus on the treatment options and intervention approaches that are used

to help those that are dealing with compulsive buying disorder (CBD). Psychologists and

economists around the world have researched this disorder by looking for both a better

understanding of why people over purchase and are also looking for effective ways to treat them.

Shopping addictions are fueled by a powerful cycle of emotions; which generally begins with a

feeling of tension or arousal when thinking about going shopping When a purchase is made,

some may experience feelings of guilt soon after a purchase. Though shopping addictions do not

vary greatly between men and women, women may have a slightly higher risk are more likely to

have learned from an earlier age that shopping is a good way to deal with stress, it is fun and

exciting, and can help with their self-esteem. Therefore, counseling, medication, and support

groups are the most well recognized treatment options and intervention approached to help those

dealing with shopping addictions.

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 3

Description of Shopping Addictions

Shopping is thought of as a necessary part of modern life and it presents itself as a leisure

activity that many may consider to be harmless (Gallagher, Watt, Weaver & Murphy, 2016,

p.37). Expressions such as "shopaholic", "retail therapy" and the notion of "shop til you drop",

have quickly become commonplace in today's popular culture (Darrat, Darrat, & Amyx, 2016,

103.) Research suggests that consumers will often resort to compulsive buying out of their

personal need for affection and a sense of belongingness (Darrat, Darrat, & Amyx, 2016, p. 103).

Gallagher et al. (2016) compulsive buying involves some preoccupations with buying or urges to

buy, in which the experiences are intrinsic and uncontrollable (p. 37). Compulsive buying (CB)

which has been reported throughout the world is described as a pattern of chronic, excessive, and

repetitive purchasing behavior that has become extremely difficult to shot in response to negative

events, or feelings of uncontrolled urges (Zhang, Brook, Leukefeld, De La Rosa & Brook, 2017,

p. 208). According to Benson and Eisenach (2013) compulsive buying has three cardinal

features” irresistible impulses to shop, the loss of control over shopping behavior, and the

persistence of such behavior in the face of adverse personal, social, and financial consequences

(p. 5). Hague, Hall, and Kellett (2016) believes that compulsive buying disorder is distinguished

by a motivation to feel better, rather than it being a factor that is derived from excessive spending

and materialism alone, repeatedly creating serious associated impacts on one's lives, such as high

debt, relationship problems, elevated risk of criminal behaviors, and suicide attempts (p.379).

Compulsive consumption is defined as "a response to an unsubstance or any type of

activity that can lead individuals to repetitively allow themselves to engage in certain types of

behaviors that will ultimately cause harm to the individual and or/to other"(Darrat, Darrat, &

Amyx, 2016, p. 103). Darrat, Darrat, and Amyx (2016) asserts that for those that engage in

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 4

compulsive behaviors, they commonly do so in order to cope with stresses of life, to escape the

demands and pressures against them, or to overcome the unpleasantry of their emotions or

situations (p. 103). In addition to being used as a way to coped with the stresses of life, negative

emotions and everyday pressures, compulsive buying is often associated with a less than

desirable self-worth (Lee, Park, & Lee, 2016, p.1904).

The Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery (An Affiliate of UnityPoint Health) there

are various social and cultural factors that can increase the addictive potential of shopping and

spending. The easy availability of applying for credit and the material focus of society in general,

tends to encourage people to accumulate possessions now and have to worry about their financial

responsibility later. The abilities to purchase has been made much easier with the easy

accessibility of on-line shopping and television stations; which devote time to buy twenty-four

hours a day. Compulsive buying is defined as an impulse control disorder and has features

similar to other addictive disorders without involving the rise of an intoxicating drug

(www.addictionrecov.org). Sohn and Choi (2013) compulsive buying can be categorized and as

“impulse control” disorder not otherwise specified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of

Mental Health Disorders IV (DSM-IV-TR) (p. 244). Impulse buying can occur when a consumer

experiences a spontaneous and unplanned urge to purchase something and then will act on their

impulse quickly, with little to no thought of their purchase or the following consequences (Lucas

& Koff, 2016, p. 330).

Current Statistics of Shopping Addictions

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 5

Lee, Park, and Lee (2016) the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that the retail e-commerce

saline in the United States for the last quarter of 2013 reached over 69 billion dollars in the

United States. This totaled about 6 percent of all retail sales in that period (p. 1901). Benson and

Eisenach (2013) despite the variations in percentages and sample populations, such studies have

unveiled compulsive buying as a serious specter hanging over millions of Americans. Bowen and

Eisenach (2013) an all-time high of nearly six billion credit offers went out to America's three

hundred million people--more than twenty offers per year to every man, woman, and child (p. 6).

This resulted in easy credit, and that ubiquitous equation of "more equals better'', has led to

plummeted savings and a skyrocketing number of bankruptcies (Benson and Eisenach, 2013, p.

6). Yet the accurate conception of the “typical” compulsive buyer remains elusive (p. 5).

Research shows that the popular stereotype; pinpoints a 30 something female who has been

buying compulsively (Benson & Eisenach, 2013, p. 5) sine her late teens or twenties.

Compulsive buying disorder (CBD) is a global disorder, with a lifetime prevalence of 5.8 percent

in the general population of the United States (Sohn & Choi, 2013, p. 244). These results were

based on results from a random telephone survey of 2,513 adults. Rose and Dhandaydham

(2014) currently estimates that 60 percent of the United Kingdom adult population has begun to

take part in online shopping activity and in 2012 saw a year-on-year growth of about 16 percent

in online sales against an overall increase in retail growth of 4 percent (p.84). However, research

showed that 92 percent of the respondents that were compulsive shoppers were women (Black,

2007, p. 14). Black (2007) community based and clinical surveys suggests that approximately

80 percent to 95 percent of those with compulsive buying disorder are women. Benson and

Eisemach (2013) conducted research study with a much narrower focus; they assessed the

prevalence of compulsive buying using three sample groups (university staff, undergraduate

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 6

students, and customers of an online women’s clothing retailer) (p.4). They identified that about

8.9 percent of personnel staff, 15.5 percent of the undergraduate students and about 16 percent of

the online customers were compulsive buyers (p.5). This study showed that the prevalence of

compulsive buying among the men was 5.5 percent, and among the women it was 6 percent

(Benson & Eismach, 2013, p. 6). Benson and Eisenach (2013) sates that “as troublesome as it

may be, the likelihood that women are more likely to be overrepresented in the studies that are

conducted because the culture attaches far less stigma to women who shop compared to men

(p.5).

Research into shopping has proved that although shopping is an important need today, it

can also be a leisure activity and a form of entertainment that has its rewards and values for some

people (Maraz, Griffiths, & Demetrovics, 2016, p.5). Compulsive buying behavior goes

unnoticed and often results in negative consequences; 5.8 percent of large debt os accumulated,

41.7 percent of people cannot make payments towards the debt, 8.3 percent face legal and

financial consequences, 8.3 percent will have criminal legal problems and 45.8 percent will

experience some sort of guilt (Maraz, Griffiths, & Demetrovics, 2016, p. 5). The consumer style

is prevalent in many cultures throughout the world; and in the United States, 75 percent of the

respondents to a survey reported having made an impulse purchase (Lucas & Koff, 2016, p.

330). Women particularly have allocated a significant amount of economic resources, spending

$750 billion annually on clothing alone (Lucas & Koff, 2016, p. 330).

Symptoms and Causes of Shopping Addictions

The development of a shopping addiction is thought to be influenced by a combination of

several different factors. The most common risk factors for shopping addiction are gender and

age, with young women hang the highest risk. Research and evidence suggests that compulsive

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 7

shopping runs in families where there are extremely high levels of mental health and substance

abuse addiction issues. Depression and general anxiety disorder are the most common

comorbidities of person suffering from compulsive buying disorder (Project Know, 2018).

Despite multiple studies highlighting the severity of the negative consequences that

compulsive buying leads to, the latest edition of the DSM-5 does not show compulsive buying

disorder due to the limited research in the field. Those individuals that have to deal with the

condition are placed within the residual category of “Unspecified disruptive, impulse-control and

conduct disorders” (Maraz, Griffiths, & Demetrovics, 2016, p. 4). According to Zhang et al.

(2017) early midlife (mid- forties) is the unique developmental period when the consequences of

many mental health problems, including compulsive buying manifest itself (p. 208). However, to

the extent that a person’s compulsive buying influences ones overall quality of life is uncertain,

especially in the United States; where compulsive buying has been viewed as a behavioral

condition (Zhang et al., 2017, p. 208).

Compulsive buying is associated with mounting tension, general distresses, and lower

quality of a person’s psychological well-being (Muller et al., 2014, p. 103). Muller et al., (2014)

those that have compulsive buying tends to suffer from the comorbid psychiatric disorders such

as anxiety, depression, binge eating disorder, substance abuse use disorder, obsessive-

compulsive disorder and compulsive hoarding (p. 103). Compulsive buying disorder was

included in the earliest attempts at classifications of mental disorders as “impulsive insanity” but

has since largely ignored until the last few decades (Hague, Hall, & Kellett, 2016, p. 379).

Hague, Hall, and Kellett (2016) states that “compulsive buying disorder is has also been

conceptualized to be a form of obsessive compulsive disorder” (p. 379).

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 8

Weinstein, Mezig, Mizrachi, and Lejoyeux (2014) depression continues to display high

frequency among compulsive buyers (p.46). A study that was conducted showed that when

depressed, participants were only happy and felt better when they were shopping. A high

prevalence of 31.9 percent of depressives has been diagnosed as compulsive buyers (Weinstein,

Mezig, Mizrachi, & Lejoyeux, 2014, p. 47). Compulsive buying is also high among persons who

are depressed and have been diagnosed with impulse disorders (intermittent explosive disorder,

kleptomania, pyromania, pathological gambling, trichotillomania, and non-specified impulse

control disorder) (Weinstein, Mezig, Mizrachi, & Lejoyeux, 2014, p. 47). Bani-Rshaid and

Alghraibeh (2017) believes that “Compulsive buying also appears to be a little more common in

depressed individuals and people who have a tendency to falsely believe in the benefits of

buying (p.47). According to Ozer and Gultekin (2015) as stated "affect, mood, emotions, and

feelings are effective at all levels of the process of consumer decision making", but mood is said

to be a "taken as feeling state" (p. 71). Mood is not intense and continuous; however, it might

also be regarded as a more general feeling state. It is claimed that when a person has as more

positive mood; they spend more (Ozer & Gultekin, p. 72). When an individual is having a

positive mood, they avoid factors that threaten their mood, so as they maintain their present

mood; they are experiencing "mood maintenance". When an individual has negative mood, they

tend to participate in activities that make them feel better; they are experiencing "mood

management" (Ozer & Gultekin, 2015, p. 72).

Granero et al. (2016) finds the study of clinical profiles and various risks factors for

compulsive buying disorder to show that some gender-dependent differences do exist, on the

send that risk, prevalence, and rates of initiation and frequency of misuses are higher for women

(p. 2). The primary basis for placing Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as an anxiety

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 9

disorder is the central role anxiety plays in OCD. Obsessiveness that leads to a sense of

mounting anxiety and engaging in compulsive behavior or mental acts can reduce anxiety (Bartz

& Hollander, 2006, p. 338). As theory and research progresses, Obsessive compulsive (OC)

spectrum disorders are placed into three clusters. The second cluster is characterized by

impulsivity; with respect to behavior that can lead to negative consequences (p. 340). Those that

suffer with obsessive compulsive disorder have impulse control and will experience increased

arousal and tension in relation to their impulsive behaviors, but aside from those with OCD,

engaging in the impulsive behavior that is typically associated with pleasure, albeit short lived

(Bartz & Hollander, 2006, p. 340).

In contrast, the behavior theory explains that compulsive buying disorder is an acquired

behavior that results from associations between a conditioned and a natural stimulus when the

individual make a purchase he or she begins to experience the joy, and thus buying becomes an

“enhanced stimulus” that is again repeated to gain joy (Bani-Rshaid & Alghraibeh, 2017, p. 47).

The cultural theory describes compulsive buying as an existing cultural phenomenon that

constructs buying—more specifically, the compulsion to satisfy a wide variety of needs which in

turns compels individuals to make unnecessary purchases. The social learning theory describes

compulsive buying a learned behavior that occurs through social interaction with other

compulsive buyers. This in turn states that those that suffer from compulsive buying behaviors

have learned through observing others and being heavily influenced by them (Bani-Rshaid &

Alghraibeh, 2017, p. 48).

Treatments for Shopping Addictions

At present, there are no proven standard pharmacological treatments for compulsive

buying disorder (Sohn & Choi, 2014, p. 244). For those individuals that are dealing with a

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 10

shopping addiction, some may have a co-curring psychiatric disorder, so some parts of their

treatment are treating those other disorder; which may have residual effects of reducing

compulsive shopping behaviors. Research shows that the best way to treat shopping addictions is

with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of talk therapy--primarily done in a

group setting. According to Kopala and Keitel (2017) cognitive behavioral therapy in the form

of exposure and response prevention (ERP) has been established as a highly effective treatment

for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) (p. 457). Black (2007) when individuals choose to

participate in psychotherapy it helps then to discover and tell their stories as a means of

understanding and to ultimately gain control of heir symptoms. Individual psychotherapy may be

the choice for the very high functioning individual who does not present other major addictive

issues but are those who are very much in the minority.

Even though data for group therapy is still being collected, group therapy is believed to provide

the most positive consistent evidence of successful treatment. According to Benson and Eisenach

(2013) there are several reasons why a homogeneous group can effectively help those recover

from compulsive buying. Group settings will help, an individual diminish the feelings of

loneliness and helps them to increase feelings of being intuitively understood. Group therapy

helps individuals to release overwhelming feelings of failure, guilt, shame, humiliation that

triggers CBB (p. 8). The groups participants are able to provide feedback from each other; which

helps them to correct the distorted self-concepts, to reframe from dysfunctional thoughts (Benson

& Eisenach, 2016, p.9). Counseling is also good for compulsive buyers because if helps

individuals to focus on the specific problem and helps them to create an action plan to stop the

behaviors. The primary goal of counseling is to stop the compulsive buying cycle and to produce

a stable financial situation that will enhance, rather than tarnish, and individuals quality of life

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 11

(Benson & Eisenach, 2013, p. 6). The prevalence and impacts of addictive disorders are well

searched and provides a context for the rationale for the creation of an addiction counseling

specialty. On the lower end of the spectrum, one in four Americans struggle with some kind of

addiction disorder; this number fails to account for those affected vicariously ((Hagerden,

Culbreth & Cashwell, 2013, p. 124).

Granero et al. (2017) indicates there are no specific medications that are approved for the

treatment of compulsive buying behaviors (p58) and no studies have shown any medications to

be effective (Lejoyeux & Weinstein, 200, p. 52). Psychopharmacologic treatment studies have

yielded some varied results. In earlier studies, it has been suggested that antidepressants could

curb cognitive behavioral disorder and an early open-label trial using fluvoxamine, showed

benefit (Black, 2007, p. 17). Kopala and Keitel (2017) research has found that clomipramine (a

non-selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) of any SSRI (e.g. fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, and

sertraline), can effectively treat obsessive compulsive disorder. In general, a combination of

pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy is recommended in cases where obsessive compulsive

disorder or when individuals fail to respond to psychotherapy alone (Kopala & Keitel, 2017, p.

458).

Jack and Ronan (2008) bibliotherapy is of recent origin. However, the idea of reading as

a means to produce change in the human behavior was recognized in the human behavior in the

early days (p. 162). The prescribed use of books to help heal the human condition appears to

have began in institutional, medical, and correctional facilities in the early days to help people

cope with mental and physical conditions (Jack and Ronan, 2008, p. 164). Today, the use of

bibliotherapy has sense moved outside of hospitals and into therapeutic, educational and

community settings. It is currently positioned as a sensitive, non-intrusive method of helping to

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 12

guide individuals towards helping them to problem solve and cope in their personal lives, a

technique that is used to stimulate discussion about problems which otherwise, at least in some

cases, might not be discussed out of fear, guilt, or shame (Jack & Ronan, 2008, p. 172). Benson

and Eisenach (2013) Debtors anonymous a twelve-step program is treatment that helps

individuals get cured with solvency, which means that abstinence from any new purchases or

debt is the equivalent of sobriety for an alcoholic. Simplicity Circles provides a place for

individuals to gather with others to discuss their personal transformations and living in the

satisfactions of a more simpler life. These simplicity circles introduce healthy ways to meet some

of one's principles needs that a compulsive buyer sees to fill through shopping, including belongs

to a community of like-minded individuals (Benson & Eisenach, 2013, p. 8).

Biblical Perspective on Shopping Addictions

God's word teaches us, that controlling our circumstances will not change our hearts

when it comes to spending or suffering from and addiction. A woman's mind will go back and

forth with spending; whether it is five dollars or one hundred dollars. Before one ever had a

problem with where their money went, they already had a problem with where their "eyes" went.

When an individual is constantly thinking about their next shopping trip or has their mind on

their next small/big purchase, they have steered their minds and heart in the wrong direction;

which has allowed them to become enslaved to their own skewed perspectives. There are

millions of women who are addicted to what is known as "compulsive shopping". Compared to

other addictions, shopping is a seemingly respectable habit and often goes under the radar in

most of their lives.

Matthew 5 (KJV) Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat

down, His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. In Jesus 'Introduction to the

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 13

Sermon on the Mount', Jesus warns his disciples not to "lay up for themselves treasures in

heaven, where moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal". For where

your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 5:3-12 (KJV) The Beautitudes: Jesus

said the finely fortunate people are those who are rich in things that matter to God, not those who

have money, power, popularity, or fame. The things that are important in God's kingdom are

often opposite of the worldly things we find so attractive. For the poor in spirit may lack money,

fine clothes, luxury cars, or even the necessities of life, but they put their trust in God instead of

worldly things.

Matthew 28:15-16 (KJV) So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this

saying commonly reported among the Jews until this day. Then the eleven disciples went away

into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. Like all addictions, they are so

very hard to break from because they seem to have a life of their own. Jesus has all the authority

in heaven and on earth. Galatians 5:1 (KJV) "For freedom Christ freed us. Stand fast therefore

and do not be entangled again with the yoke of bondage". Jesus power can break those who are

suffering and living in bondage; he can be called the "bondage breaker" He is the only one that

can break a person and free them from the bondage of compulsive shopping. If a compulsive

shopper does not deal with the root of their addictions, then they will simply replace the current

one with another one. Freedom from addictions come to those who trust in Christ and allows him

to bring deliverance from their addictions of compulsive shopping. Once a person understands

the truth about their addiction, they will be able to stand on the line with the enemy and resist the

temptation to give in. So, the next time a person finds themselves dealing with their addiction,

they should stand fast on God's word and battle with the truth. God comforts those that love and

believe in him; and he "covers" those that are believers and stand firm on his word. Most

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 14

importantly, when all else fails; ask "What Would Jesus Do?'. Colossians 2:10 (KJV) Christ has

provided all the fulfillment we could ever need.

Homework Assignments to help with Shopping Addictions

According to Eng (2010) she suggests there are several different things that a person can

do to avoid shopping binges. She suggests that paying for purchases by cash, check, or debit

card. It is wise to make a shopping list and only making purchases that are on your list. It is

suggested that one destroy all credit cards; only keeping one for emergency purposes. It is also

suggested that one avoids discount warehouse. It is very important that if one, wants to go to a

discount warehouse, to only allocate a certain amount of money. Also, to avoid binge shopping

she thinks it is best to window shop, only after the business has closed, take a walk or exercise

when the urge to shop comes up, avoid phoning in catalog orders and avoid shopping channels.

In conclusion, shopping addictions are prevalent among many Americans. It is very

imperative that if one has any inclination that they are suffering from compulsive buying

disorder, they need to recognize they have a problem, seek treatment, and continue to seek

guidance.

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTIONS 15

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Running head: WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 1

Women in Counseling: Shopping Addiction

Name

Institution

Course

Instructor

Date of Submission

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 2

Abstract

This research paper deliberates on the treatment alternatives as well as intervention

methods that have been designed to advance the health conditions of the people who are

susceptible to compulsive buying disorder (CBD). Economists in conjunction with psychologists

across the world have researched extensively about this problem to identify the underlying

reasons that lead people to over purchase items as well as looking for necessary treatment

options for this concern. Addictions based on shopping have been propelled by a strong cycle of

emotions that usually starts the moment one feels that he or she is inflicted with tension or

aroused when the idea of shopping gets into his or her mind. In the event of making a purchase,

one may be instigated with tension or even arousal in the course of making a purchase. While the

degree of variance in shopping addiction between men and women is small, the issue is prevalent

in women as compared to men. Women tend to be highly vulnerable to this condition because

they engage in addiction as a way of relieving themselves from stress. They also view addiction

as fun, exciting, as well as a way of boosting their self-esteem. For this reason, medication,

counseling, along with the support groups are suitable treatment options for managing this

condition.

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Description of Shopping Addictions

Shopping is always perceived to be a necessary part of the contemporary life and it often

presents itself as a leisure activity that it may be hard for one to notice if the act may be harmful

if left uncontrolled. Expressions like retail therapy, shopaholic, as well as the idea of the shop

until to drop have emerged as being commonplace in the existing popular culture. Pieces of

evidence make it clear that consumers will at all times choose to engage in compulsive buying

following their personal sense of belongingness in conjunction with the need for affection

(Gallagher, Watt, Weaver & Murphy, 2016, p.37). Compulsive buying encompasses some

preoccupations with either urges to buy or even making a purchase where the experiences are

longer controllable and become innate (Darrat, Darrat, & Amyx, 2016, p. 103). Compulsive

buying disorder (CBD) an issue that is common across the world can be conceptualized as a

pattern of excessive, chronic, and consistent behavior in the face of detrimental social, personal,

and financial consequences (Zhang et al., 2017, p.208). Benson and Eisenach (2013) commented

that this disorder is marked with three features including not to mention being unable to control

the shopping behavior, irresistible impulses to shop, as well as consistency of the behavior that

may then subject one to detrimental personal, financial, and social consequences. Hague, Hall, &

Kellet (2016) assert that the behavior can be differentiated by the motivation to feel better,

instead of being an element that is drawn from extravagant spending and materialism all the

time, hence affecting one severely. To be specific, some negative effects associated with the

behavior include but not limited to relationship constraints, high debt, suicidal thoughts, in

conjunction with increased chances of engaging in criminal acts (Zhang, Brook, Leukefeld, De

La Rosa & Brook, 2017, p. 208).

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Compulsive consumption can be comprehended as a response to any type of activity that

sees a person engaging in the act all the time, and this activity may then harm the person

eventually, or those around him or her. Darrat, Darrat, & Amyx (2016) stresses that some people

may tend to engage in compulsive behaviors as a way of not only manage their stressful

situations but also, escape the demands along with the pressures against them, or even to contain

the discomfort of their situations or emotions. Additionally, people tend to engage in compulsive

buying to disengage themselves from the daily pressures along with the negative emotions

considering the fact that compulsive buying is connected to less than the desirable self-worth

(Lee, Park, & Lee, 2016, p.1904).

The Illinois Institute for addiction Recovery which is affiliated to UnityPoint Health

points out that various cultural in conjunction with the social aspects can amplify the addictive

potential as well as spending. Being able to apply for credit without experiencing any constraints

as well as the material focus of the society, in general, can influence individuals to accumulate

possessions as well as inflict them with worry regarding their financial mandate later. The

potentiality to purchase has been simplified following the easy accessibility of the television

stations in conjunction with the online shopping that allows one to make a purchase anytime.

Compulsive buying can be understood as an impulse control health condition and is marked with

some features that correspond to other addictive disorders only that one does not engage in

substance abuse to suffer this disorder. Sohn and Choi (2013) make it clear that compulsive

buying can be classified as an impulse control as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of

Mental Health Disorders-IV (DSM-IV-TR) (p.244). Impulse buying normally happens when the

consumer is exposed to spontaneous as well as unplanned longing for purchasing something that

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 5

will make him or her act promptly without engaging his or her thoughts to find out if the

purchase was necessary.

Current Statistics of Shopping Addictions

Lee, Park, & Lee (2016) the Census Bureau of the US approximated that in the last

quarter of 2013, US retail e-commerce saline surpassed $59 billion. This translated to 6% of the

cumulative retail sales in that period. Benson and Eisenach (2013) commented that despite the

variability in the percentages as well as the sample populations, these studies describe

compulsive buying as a potential specter that affects millions of the US dwellers. They added

that about six billion credit propositions were handed out to the three hundred million US

citizens which suggests more than 20 propositions on an annual basis to each person, that is

every child, man, and a woman (p.6). This contributed to an easy recognition and that the

ubiquitous equation that is “more equals better,” has contributed to numerous bankruptcies along

with the plummeted savings (Benson and Eisnach, 2013, p.6). Research makes it apparent that

the trending perception: a lady in her thirties has been making compulsive purchases since her

early twenties. Compulsive buying disorder (CBD) is a chronic disorder that affects people

across the world. Currently, 5.8% of the total population in the US suffer from this disorder.

These results were centered on the findings based on a random telephone survey of 2,513 people.

Rose & Dhandaydham (2014) approximated that, presently, 60 of the United Kingdom citizens

have become online shoppers. In 2012, the incidence of the online shoppers amplified by about

16% against the overall increment in the growth of retail of 4% (p.84). Nevertheless, pieces of

evidence have revealed that 92% of the respondents that have been vulnerable to compulsive

shopper entailed women. Black (2007) clinical in conjunction with the community-based surveys

point out that an estimate of 80 percent to 90 percent of the people who are susceptible to this

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 6

disorder encompasses the women. Benson and Eisemach (2013) carried out a research study with

a partial focus; they examined the predominance of compulsive buying by employing three

sample groups including not to mention undergraduate students, university staff, in conjunction

with the customers who used to purchase women clothes online. They pointed out that nearly 9

percent of the 16% of the online shoppers, and 16% of the undergraduate students were

compulsive shoppers (p.5). This study made it clear that the incidence of compulsive buying

among the men was 5.5% while it was detailed as 6% (Benson & Eismach, 2013, p. 6). Benson

and Eisenach (2013) clarified that the incidence of compulsive shopping is common in women as

compared to men. As difficult as it may be, the chances that women are highly probable to be

overrepresented in studies that are carried out because culture connects less stigma to women

who are used to shopping regularly than to men (p.5).

Pieces of evidence with regards to shopping have attested that while shopping is an

important aspect presently, it can as well be a leisure activity as well as a form of entertainment

that is marked with some rewards in conjunction with values for some people (Maraz, Griffiths,

& Demetrovics, 2016, p.5). Compulsive buying behavior might go unrealized and, in most

instances, it is usually detrimental. To put it clearly, compulsive buying behavior accounts for

5.8% cumulative debts across the world where 41% of the people with these debts are unable to

settle them, while 8.3% will face criminal legal issues, and 45.8 percent will be subjected to

some guilt (Maraz, Griffiths, & Demetrovics, 2016, p. 5). The style of the consumer is

predominant in various cultures across the world. With the focus on the US, 75 percent of the

total respondents in a survey admitted to making an impulse purchase (Lucas & Koff, 2016, p.

330). Among these respondents, women seemed to dominate in number as most of them

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 7

allocated a substantial amount of financial resources where it has been reported that they spend

approximately $750 billion on clothing on an annual basis (Lucas & Koff, 2016, p. 330).

Symptoms and Causes of Shopping Addictions

Addiction based on addiction is an issue that is thought to be prompted by the integration

of some factors. While various factors have been known to trigger this concern, age along with

gender have been noted to be the common risk factors. Pieces of evidence propose that

compulsive shopping is an issue that is evident in families that are attributed to a high degree of

substance abuse as well as cognitive disorder issues. The most common comorbidities of an

individual susceptible to compulsive buying disorder include but not limited to generalized

anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as depression (Project Know, 2018).

It is apparent, that various studies have pointed out that seriousness of the detrimental

effects following the disorder. All the same, the DSM-5 (latest edition) is yet to show the

seriousness prompted by the disorder and this has been because of shallow research on the

subject matter. People who have to manage this condition are often placed within the residual

grouping of “impulse control, uncertain disruptive, and conduct disorders” (Maraz, Griffiths, &

Demetrovics, 2016, p. 4). Zhang et al (2017) detail that in the early middle life that is mid-

forties, entails a stage of a unique developmental period that is featured with effects of various

cognitive health disorders, compulsive being one of them and at this stage, the effects of these

disorders begin to appear. (p.208). nevertheless, to the degree in which the compulsive buying in

a person influences his or her overall health condition is obscure, particularly, in the US where

compulsive buying has been classified as a behavioral disorder (Zhang et al., 2017, p.208).

Compulsive buying is corresponded to general distresses, mounting tension, in

conjunction with low quality of the psychological well-being of a person (Muller et al., 2014, p.

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103). Muller et al (2014) recorded that those people who are predisposed to compulsive buying

are highly probable to suffer comorbid psychiatric conditions including not to mention

obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, substance abuse disorder, compulsive hoarding, in

conjunction with binge eating disorder (p.103). Compulsive buying disorder was engaged in the

former attempts of mental disorders classification as they were classified as impulsive insanity,

though, they have been ignored in the previous few decades (Hague, Hall, & Kellett, 2016, p.

379). Hague, Hall, & Kellet (2016) categorized this disorder and grounded it on the obsessive-

compulsive disorder (p.379).

Weinsten et al (2014) reported that depression is a mental disorder that will maintain its

commonness among people with the obsessive buying disorder (p.46). In their study, these

researchers illustrated that the participants would maintain their feelings of sadness until when

they shopped. A high incidence of 31.9% of the participants who suffered depression was

diagnosed with suffering from compulsive buying disorder (Weinstein, Mezig, Mizrachi, &

Lejoyeux, 2014, p. 47). A high incidence of compulsive buying was recorded among the

participants with depression and had been found to be prone to impulse disorders. Bani-Rshaid

(2017) stated that compulsive buying tends to be common among depressed individuals as well

as people who have been diagnosed with gambling, pathological, pyromania, kleptomania,

intermittent explosive disorder, trichotillomania, as well as uncertain impulse control disorder.

Ozer and Gultekin (2015) reported that “affect, emotions, mood, and feelings are integral at all

phases of the course of consumer decision-making. Nonetheless, the mood is said to be a feeling

of a condition (p.71). On the other hand, the mood is not consistent and intense. Nonetheless, it

may be viewed as being a more general state of feeling. It has been denoted that when a person is

instigated with a more positive mood, they are compelled to spend more (Ozer & Gultekin, p.

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 9

72). When a person is inflicted with a positive mood, he or she tends to disengage him or herself

from aspects that may affect their mood in an attempt to maintain the positive mood and that is

what is identified as mood maintenance. When an individual is inflicted with a negative mood,

he or she may choose to engage him or herself in activities that will enable him or her to feel

positive and that is what is known as mood management (Ozer & Gultekin, p. 72).

Granero et al (2016) recorded that studies pertaining clinical profiles along with various

risk factors based on compulsive shopping that illustrate about the gender-dependent differences

exist in the sense that prevalence, risk, as well as initiation incidence along with the frequency of

misuses are common in women (p.2). The foundation of classifying OCD as an anxiety disorder

is grounded on the primary role of anxiety in OCD (Bartz & Hollander, 2006, p. 338).

Obsessiveness that contributes to the sense of prompting anxiety in conjunction with engaging in

OCD has been noted to reduce anxiety. As the research and the theory advances, OCD gets

classified into three groups. The second group is attributed to impulsivity based on the behavior

that can escalate negative effects. (p.340). people who are prone to the obsessive-compulsive

disorder are marked with impulse control and will face amplified arousal and tension with

regards to their impulsive acts but aside, from the people with OCD, being engaged in impulsive

behaviors that are ideally corresponded to pleasure, albeit short-lived (Bartz & Hollander, 2006,

p. 338).

On the contrary, the theory of behavior makes it clear that compulsive shopping disorder

is an adopted behavior. This is because it stems from a correlation between a natural and a

conditioned stimulus when the individual develops feelings of joy after making a purchase and

so, making buying to emerge as an advanced stimulus that may then be repeated to augment joy

(Bani-Rshaid & Alghraibeh, 2017, p. 47). The cultural theory delineates compulsive buying as

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 10

being as a current cultural situation that prompts buying to consequently, satisfy various needs

that then compels one to purchase unnecessarily. The theory of social learning makes it clear that

compulsive shopping is a learned behavior that happens through interacting socially with other

compulsive shoppers. It then states that those who are prone to the disorder have acquired this

condition from their colleagues with the same behavioral condition (Bani-Rshaid & Alghraibeh,

2017, p. 47).

Treatment for Shopping Addictions

Currently, no standard pharmacological treatment has been recommended for compulsive

buying (Sohn & Choi, 2014, p. 244). Individuals who have been suffering from shopping

addiction may be inflicted with a co-curring mental disorder, therefore, a section of their

treatment may be tailored towards treating those disorders. Such treatments are often known for

having residual effects of minimizing compulsive shopping disorders. Pieces of evidence

demonstrate that the ultimate way of managing shopping addiction entails engaging cognitive-

behavioural therapeutic (CBT) treatment modality. CBT is a form of treatment modality that is

majorly achieved in a group setting. Kopala & Keitel (2007) maintained that the CBT in the form

of response as well as exposure prevention (REP) had been initiated to be an exceptional

treatment for managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (p.457). Black (2007) stated that when

individuals decide to become part of the psychotherapy, the treatment modality will enable them

to discover and later, share their stories as a way of understanding in conjunction with gaining

control of their symptoms necessarily. Individual psychotherapy might be preferred for the very

high functioning person who is not vulnerable to other primary addictive constraints but meant

for those who are highly based in the minority.

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 11

While the data for group therapy was still in the event of being collected, group therapy is

thought to deliver the most compelling and consistent evidence that might promote successful

treatment. Benson and Eisenach (2013) put it clear that various reasons suggest the necessity of

the homogeneous group in seeing individuals with shopping addiction recovering from their

disorder. Group therapy allows people to unveil the overwhelming feelings of humiliation, guilt,

shame, and fear that triggers compulsive buying (p.8). The participants engaged in the group can

present feedback from groupmates, and this presents them with the room of correcting the

distorted self-concepts and so, manage their dysfunctional thoughts. Counseling has also been

noted to be proper for compulsive buyers as it enables individuals to drive their attention to the

problem and hence, come up with an action plan that will see them being free from the problem

(Benson & Eisenach, 2016, p.9). Counseling primarily seeks to disengage one from a buying

compulsively in a cycle and hence, produce a stable fiscal condition, instead of tarnishing the

quality of life of individuals (Benson & Eisenach, 2013, p. 6). The prevalence in conjunction

with the effects of addictive disorders have been explored into details and presents a justification

for the establishment of an addiction counseling specialty. At the far end of the spectrum, 25% of

the US dwellers are vulnerable to some sort of addictive disorders and this number does not

include those who have been affected vicariously (Hagerden, Culbreth & Cashwell, 2013, p.

124).

Granero et al (2017) state that no medication has been recommended for compulsive

buying behavior (p.58). He added that no study had attested any pharmacological agent that has

been substantial in treating the condition (Lejoyeux & Weinstein, 200, p. 52). Nonetheless,

studies that have covered psychopharmacologic treatment have presented varying results. In the

former studies, it has been detailed that antidepressants cold be meaningful in curbing cognitive

WOMEN IN COUNSELING: SHOPPING ADDICTION 12

behavioral disorder and again, open-label trial utilizing fluvoxamine has been impactful. Kopala

& Keitel (2017) study revealed that clomipramine an example of non-selective serotonin

reuptake inhibitor of any SSRI like the fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, and sertraline are effective in

treating OCD. Overall, the integration of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy is advised in

situations where OCD or individuals become unresponsive to psychotherapy alone (Kopala &

Keitel, 2017, p. 458).

Jack & Ronan (2008) stated the bibliotherapy was initiated recently, yet the notion of

reading as a method to generate change in the human behavior was acknowledged in the early

days (p.162). The prescribed utilization of reading materials to facilitate in healing seems to have

been initiated in the medical, institutional, as well as correctional facilities formerly to allow

people manage their physical and mental condition (Jack and Ronan, 2008, p. 164). Currently,

utilizing bibliotherapy has been impactful to an extent its application has been extended to the

educational, therapeutic, as well as community settings. Presently, it has been positioned that a

non-intrusive, sensitive approach of guiding individuals towards solving their problems in

conjunction with coping with their individual lives is always engaged to stimulate a discussion

regarding problems at least, in some instances that may be discussed in the absence of fear,

shame, and guilt. Benson and Eisenach (2013) reported that debtors unknown a twelve-step

program is a treatment modality that sees people get cured with solvency. This implies that

abstaining from any debts or new purchases equates the sobriety for the alcoholic. Simplicity

circles present a room for people to come together and deliberate their personal transformations

as well as their living satisfactions of a life that seems simpler. Certainly, these simplicity circles

introduce people to healthier ways of meeting their principal needs that the compulsive buyer

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may see to fill through shopping and they may encompass belonging to a community of the like-

minded individuals (Benson & Eisenach, 2013, p. 8).

Biblical Perspectives on Shopping Addictions

The word of God informs us that being in a position to control our circumstances do not

transform our hearts when it is time for spending or experiencing the issue of addiction. The

mind of a woman will always be engaged in a debate when it comes to spending regardless of the

amount; whether it is five dollars or even a hundred dollars. Prior to having the problem on how

to spend the money, already one was engaged in the problem that stemmed from their eyes

wherein, specifically, their enthusiasm to purchase what they have seen. When a person thinks

all the time about his or her consequent shopping trip or what to purchase he or she steers his or

her mind and heart in the mistaken direction. Consequently, this makes them become enslaved to

their skewed perspectives. Ideally, millions of women are vulnerable to compulsive buying.

When comparing to other addictions, compulsive shopping seems a respectable habit and so, it is

based on the radar in most of their lives.

Matthew (KJV) states that when Jesus set his eyes on the crowds, he climbed a mountain

and sat down, his disciples approached him, and he started to present them with teaching. The

teaching was based on Sermon on the Mount where he warned his disciples against laying up for

themselves treasures in heaven, where rust nor moth destroys, and again, where it will be

impossible for thieves to steal and make away with the valuables. The reason is that the heart

will always be based on where one treasures. Matthew 5:3-12 (KJV) talked about the beatitudes

and in this teaching, Jesus commented that one can be said to be finely fortunate if he or she is

rich in things that are based on God and not those who are associated with fame, wealth, money,

and power. What matters to God is usually distinct to the worldly things that appear attractive to

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the sight of people. While the poor in spirit may experience a deficit in fine clothes, money, and

luxury cars alongside other necessities they trust in God more than they trust the worldly things.

Matthew 28:15-16 (KJV) has been detailed that they took money just as they were taught

and this is a saying that has been reported to the Jews until to date. Thereafter, the eleven

disciples went away into Galilee, specifically, into a mountain a place that Jesus appointed them.

Similarly, to other addictions, they are very hard to break from as they seem to have their unique

life. Jesus has all the authority not only on earth but, in heaven as well. Galatians 5:1 (KJV)

details that to enjoy freedom, Christ liberated us, so, we should be fast in standing up and hence,

the yoke of bondage should no longer entwine us. Jesus is so powerful that he can free a person

who is suffering from the bondage of compulsive buying. That said, if the compulsive buyer fails

to manage the root of his or her behavior, then chances are that he or she will develop another

behavior to substitute the current one. Based on Christianity, one can be liberated from the

bondage of compulsive buying if he or she develops his or her trust towards Christ and allows to

get delivered by him to ensure that they have been freed from the condition. After a person is

informed about the reality of his or her addiction, he or she will stand on the line with the enemy

and avoid being tempted by the enemy. For this reason, it will be possible for the person to deal

with his or her addiction with fewer constraints and this will be achieved by standing with the

word of God to use it to battle the enemy while standing with the truth. It is eloquent that God

provides comfort to those who believe in him and love Him. God also covers the believers and

rely on His word to stand firm. Last but not least, when one asks “What Would Jesus Do?”

Colossians 2:10 attempts to answer this concern by making it clear that Jesus has already

provided the fulfillments that could ever be required.

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Homework Assignments to help with Shopping Addictions

Eng (2010) suggests that a person can engage in various things to disengage him or

herself from the shopping binges. She illustrates that when paying for the purchases either by

debit, check, or cash, it would be meaningful to come up with a shopping list to ensure that the

purchases only cover those included in the shopping list. It has been proposed that one may

avoid a discount warehouse. It is vital that if one is in need of getting a discount warehouse, then

he or she should allocate a section of the amount of money. Furthermore, as a way of avoiding

binge shopping, Eng (2010) believes that window shopping is proper after the shops have been

closed and it may be necessary where the only one takes a walk or even exercise when he or she

has the quest to shop, avoid shopping channels, or even avoid phoning in catalog orders.

In summary, compulsive buying is predominant not only amongst many Americans but

also, among many people across the world. it is apparent that if a person is marked with any

inclination that he or she is predisposed to compulsive buying, then he or she should

acknowledge that he or she is susceptible to the problem and thereafter, seek treatment and at the

same time, seek guidance.

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