Emotional and psychological drivers of compulsive shopping: a qualitative exploration of triggers and coping mechanisms

Background: Compulsive shopping is often driven by emotional and psychological factors that create a cyclical pattern of temporary relief followed by dissatisfaction. Emotional triggers such as sadness, loneliness, grief, frustration, anger, and nostalgia, as well as relational failures, unmet desires, and attempts to recapture a past identity, are believed to play a significant role in the development and persistence of compulsive shopping behaviors. Method: This study employed a qualitative research design, using in-depth interviews with participants who identified as compulsive shoppers. The interviews explored emotional and psychological triggers, the cyclical nature of compulsive buying behaviors, and coping mechanisms employed to manage these tendencies. Themes and patterns in participants’ narratives were analyzed to identify emotional drivers and potential strategies for intervention. Results: Participants reported using shopping as a temporary escape from emotional pain, such as sadness, loneliness, or grief, which often provided fleeting relief but was quickly followed by regret and dissatisfaction. Emotional dissatisfaction resulting from unmet shopping expectations, relational breakdowns, and attempts to preserve a past identity further perpetuated compulsive shopping cycles. Identified coping strategies included setting financial boundaries, engaging in therapy, building social connections, and practicing mindful consumption, which provided avenues for managing emotional triggers and reducing compulsive buying behaviors. Conclusion: This study underscores the significant role of emotional and psychological factors in compulsive shopping behaviors and highlights the cyclical nature of emotional triggers and dissatisfaction that sustains these patterns. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.