Compulsive buying disorder: a review and update.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Compulsive buying disorder (CBD) involves chronic purchasing of unneeded items, leading to severe negative consequences.
• Operational definitions for CBD often draw parallels with OCD, SUDs, and ICDs due to lack of established criteria.
• CBD is prevalent, impacting 5.8% of the general population, typically with early onset, frequent comorbidities, and a chronic trajectory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of compulsive buying disorder.
• To explore potential etiological factors and treatment modalities for CBD.
• To suggest public policy initiatives for individuals with excessive spending behaviors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on compulsive buying disorder.
• Analysis of proposed etiological factors including biological, psychological, and sociocultural influences.
• Evaluation of current treatment data and recommendations for interventions.

Main Results:

• CBD is a common disorder with no established diagnostic criteria, often comorbid with other conditions.
• Etiology is multifactorial, involving biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.
• Limited treatment data suggests a multimodal approach including CBT, counseling, and pharmacotherapy (SSRIs, naltrexone).

Conclusions:

• Compulsive buying disorder requires further research to establish diagnostic criteria and refine treatment strategies.
• Integrated treatment approaches addressing comorbidities and utilizing therapies like CBT are recommended.
• Public policy, including educational and legislative measures, may support individuals with excessive spending and CBD.