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Compulsive buying: a report of 20 cases
S L McElroy1, P E Keck, H G Pope
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, OH 45267-0559.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Compulsive buying disorder is often linked with mood and anxiety disorders. Treatments like thymoleptics show promise in reducing symptoms, suggesting it warrants further study as a distinct mental disorder.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Compulsive buying disorder (CBD) is a prevalent yet understudied condition.
- Characterizing CBD is crucial for understanding its impact on individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clinical features of compulsive buying disorder.
- To explore comorbidities and treatment responses in individuals with CBD.
Main Methods:
- Structured diagnostic interviews were used to evaluate 20 patients with problematic buying behavior.
- Family histories and treatment responses (psychological and biological) were assessed.
Main Results:
- High comorbidity rates were observed, with 95% having major mood disorders and 80% having anxiety disorders.
- First-degree relatives showed a high prevalence of mood disorders.
- 69% of patients on thymoleptics reported symptom reduction.
Conclusions:
- Compulsive buying disorder is associated with significant psychological, interpersonal, and financial difficulties.
- CBD frequently co-occurs with other psychiatric disorders and may be treatable.
- Further research is recommended, with proposed diagnostic criteria for CBD.