Antecedents and consequences of compulsive buying behaviour: the moderating effect of financial management

Purpose This paper investigates the determinants of compulsive buying behaviour (CBB) and ascertains the effect of CBB on the propensity of an individual to be dependent on loans and fall into financial trouble. The study additionally examines the moderating effect of financial management on the hypothesized relationships. Design/methodology/approach The survey method of research was adopted using questionnaires as the principal means of data collection. The predicted relationships of the study were tested using the partial least square structural equation modelling technique. Findings The authors’ results suggest materialism, socioeconomic status and financial management skills of an individual are significant predictors of CBB. The authors also find CBB to be positively associated with loan dependence and the authors’ analysis suggests financial management skills moderate the hypothesized relationships. Social implications Findings of this study suggest buying compulsively increases the risks of over-dependence on loans and can be indirectly associated with the risk of individuals falling into financial trouble. Originality/value The findings highlight the adverse effects of CBB on loan dependence and financial trouble and the moderating effect of financial management on the dominant factors that influence CBB.