Do You Have an Emotional Response to Shopping?

Most of us enjoy shopping. (Why else would you be reading this?) But, we wonder, how and why does shopping affect our moods?

We shop for many reasons. Primarily, of course, we need something – a winter coat or boots, a dress for a special occasion, back-to-school clothes for our kids. However, are there other reasons we scour the racks at the mall?

Do you shop when you are sad…or when you are happy? Purchasing something always seems to raise our mood!

People will aspire to own something they see on TV or read about or see someone else has. They can also aspire to a lifestyle that the product or brand evokes. The shopping environment may be conducive to spending money. (Think about stores with great merchandising displays.) We may see shopping as a recreational activity or enjoy the "thrill of the hunt" as we look for a great buy.

In addition, shopping and buying may give us a connection, sense of belonging and approval from our peers. So, go shop and enjoy!