Oniomania, also known as compulsive buyer disorder, is a psychological disorder characterized by the constant and uncontrollable need to buy and acquire objects, often without real need or without taking into account the economic consequences. This condition goes beyond simply enjoying shopping or being an occasional impulsive shopper. People who suffer from oniomania experience a sense of urgency and satisfaction when making purchases, often followed by feelings of guilt, anxiety or regret once the impulse to buy has passed.
Characteristics of Oniomania
Oniomania is considered an impulse control disorder and can have a significant impact on the lives of those who suffer from it. Some of the common characteristics of oniomania include:
1. Compulsive Buying
People with oniomania feel an uncontrollable need to buy, even when they do not need the item in question. They may spend hours browsing online stores or in malls, buying things they can't afford and racking up significant debt in the process.
2. Feelings of Euphoria
Making a purchase can trigger a feeling of euphoria in people with oniomania. This feeling of momentary pleasure acts as a positive reinforcement that reinforces compulsive buying behavior.
3. Guilt and Remorse
After compulsive buying, many people experience feelings of guilt, remorse or shame. They may realize that they have spent more than they could afford or have acquired items that they did not really need.
Causes of Oniomania
Oniomania can have multiple causes, and is usually the result of a combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Some of the factors that may contribute to the development of oniomania include:
1. Underlying Psychological Disorders
People with oniomania often have other underlying psychological disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. The impulse to buy can be a way to cope with these emotional problems or temporarily relieve anxiety.
2. Environmental Factors
The environment in which a person grows and develops can also influence the appearance of oniomania. A family environment in which money is used as a way to express love or affection, or in which excessive consumerism is encouraged, may predispose an individual to develop oniomania.
3. Neurochemical Imbalances
Some research suggests that imbalances in certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which is related to the sensation of reward, may play a role in oniomania. People with oniomania may experience increased activation of reward circuits in the brain when making compulsive purchases.
Impact of Oniomania
Oniomania not only affects mental and emotional health of those who suffer from it, but it can also have significant consequences on other aspects of their lives, such as interpersonal relationships, financial situation and self-esteem. Some of the ways oniomania can impact people include:
1. Financial Problems
Compulsive shopping can lead to significant financial difficulties, such as accumulated debt, lack of savings or inability to cover basic expenses. This aspect can cause additional stress and worsen associated mental health problems.
2. Conflicts in Relationships
Oniomania can cause tension in interpersonal relationships, especially if the partner or family members are affected by the consequences of compulsive buying behavior. Lack of communication, mistrust and financial problems can deteriorate close relationships.
3. Feelings of Uselessness
People with oniomania may experience feelings of worthlessness or lack of control over their own actions, which can affect their self-esteem and cause negative emotions such as shame or depression.
Treatment of Oniomania
Fortunately, oniomania is a disorder that can be treated with the right help. Treatment of oniomania usually involves a combination of psychological therapy, emotional support, and, in some cases, medications. Some common strategies used in the treatment of oniomania include:
1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in the treatment of oniomania. CBT helps identify and change dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors related to compulsive buying, promoting healthier coping strategies.
2. Group Support
Participating in support groups of people who also struggle with oniomania can be beneficial for some people. Sharing experiences, tips, and strategies for controlling impulse buying can provide a sense of community and mutual understanding.
3. Stress Management
Learning stress and anxiety management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness practice, can help people with oniomania control their impulses and deal with emotions. that trigger the need to buy compulsively.
Prevention and Self-Control Strategies
In addition to professional treatment, there are some strategies that people with oniomania can implement on their own to prevent relapses and control their compulsive buying impulses. Some of these strategies include:
1. Setting a Budget
Keeping a detailed monthly budget can help people with oniomania control their spending and limit impulsive purchases. By being clear about how much money they can allocate to non-essential purchases, the chances of overspending are reduced.
2. Identify Triggers
Identifying what factors trigger the need to buy compulsively, such as stress, sadness or loneliness, can help people find alternative ways to cope with those emotions without resorting to impulsive purchases.
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3. Seeking Other Forms of Pleasure
Exploring alternative activities that generate pleasure and satisfaction, such as art, music, exercise or reading, can help divert attention from the need to compulsively buy and provide a feeling of emotional well-being without resorting to material consumption.
In summary, oniomania is a serious psychological disorder that can have a negative impact on the lives of those who suffer from it. However, with proper treatment, emotional support, and self-management strategies, people with oniomania can learn to control their shopping impulses, improve their emotional well-being, and regain control over their lives and finances.