Oh, shopping. There’s something about going out and finding a new outfit that makes me SO happy whenever I’m feeling down. A new pair of shoes can truly make my day much brighter. Although it’s kinda pathetic, it’s true. How do I compare to the rest of the world?
A new survey conducted by CouponCabin.com found one-in-four U.S. adults admit they have gone shopping for "Retail Therapy." Although it certainly makes me happier, that’s not the case for everyone who goes shopping when they are in a bad mood.
Does Retail therapy work?
While 33% of those who have gone shopping for retail therapy said they felt happy afterward, 30% said they temporarily forgot their bad mood, 16% said they thought it would put them in a better mood but it didn't and 15% said they felt guilty.
So is retail therapy a good idea? I mean, it’s got to be better than turning to drugs and other substances, right?
"Every now and then, it's ok to treat yourself to something if you're feeling down, but shoppers need to be careful," said Jackie Warrick, President and Chief Savings Officer at CouponCabin.com. "Shopping in pursuit of retail therapy, or for other reasons other than necessity, can result in broken budgets. Shoppers need to be aware of their spending habits and keep their buying in check."
What are the emotions that follow after shopping? Some feel happy, some get a thrill out of using coupons, and some feel guilty about shopping for themselves when they don’t necessarily need something.
Lying About Purchases
Have you ever found yourself hiding a purchase from your special someone?
Often, the emotions surround shopping can cause people to hide purchases from their significant other. In fact, more than four-in-ten said they have hidden purchases from a significant other.
Why would they do such a thing?
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Item was a gift for significant other or for someone else
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It wasn't within an agreed upon budget
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Ashamed of how many purchases were made
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Embarrassed by purchases
I've never gone that far, but then again I've never felt guilty after "retail therapy" because I knew I was going to go and spend some money on myself. It's a way to "treat myself" after having a bad day!
Do you like to go shopping when you’re feeling down or in a bad mood? Has it ever gotten you in trouble financially? Share your stories!
