Consumer Behavior

Consumed by Consumption: A Phenomenological Exploration of the Compulsive Clothing Buying Experience

---

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of the compulsive buying experience through an in-depth exploration of what it is like to be a compulsive buyer, and in particular, a compulsive clothing buyer. A phenomenological approach to inquiry was employed. In-depth interviews were conducted with a total of 6 females in the US. Participants were also asked to keep personal journals. Recorded interviews and journals were transcribed verbatim. Responses were analyzed thematically by the researchers. Four main core thematic areas emerged and were used to structure the interpretation: The Person, The Process, The Product, and The Path to Recovery. Findings from this study support and enhance previous studies suggesting the importance of clothing among compulsive buyers. However, this study is the first to offer potential explanations for this preference, including the physical attributes of the product as well as its ability to transform the self through appearance.

How to Cite:

Martinez-Novoa, L. M. & Hodges, N. J., (2017) “Consumed by Consumption: A Phenomenological Exploration of the Compulsive Clothing Buying Experience”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 74(1).