Why we spend?

cngreen

I was thinking about this the other day in regards to my spending and debt.  Has anyone read anything good related to why they spend in the way they do.  I dont like to abdicate my responsibility to my childhood.  But any resources that you can think of?  

Nonnadiluca

We spend because billions of pounds are spent on bombarding us with messages telling us that we/ our lives are not good enough, but if we buy whatever they're selling, we will be more beautiful/successful/happy/worthy. I can't remember which comedian said it, but ads aimed at women are basically, "Ladies, do you have a face? It's wrong!" Sums it up quite well I think.

enthusiasticsaver

Lots of reasons why people spend, some of it is learned behaviour and some is  circumstantial.  

Advertising and consumerism plays a big part as Nonnadiluca says.  Many people listen to these messages on TV or social media and buy into the consumerist mantra that we need the latest phone or a transatlantic holiday, new car, expensive beauty products etc etc.  

Poor budget planning is often a cause for overspending or people not realising how much they are spending.  Often it is impulsive spending without thinking it through and just immediately reaching for the credit or debit card.  In todays world where it is so easy to buy online without making any effort really a lot of people get sucked into spending without thinking if they can afford it or failing to think about other more essential things they need to pay for.  

Compulsive shopping is another reason often as a way of asserting control either consciously or subconsciously.  There are people who buy things to cheer themselves up and are addicted to shopping to combat boredom, feelings of insecurity or loneliness or rebelling against  financially abusive partners.  

Everyone has to spend to live but the choices we all make as to where and when to spend can be down to childhood issues as you think yours are but equally it could be influenced by any of the above.