Compulsive buying can be a damaging addiction

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July 28, 2020 – In some ways, the internet represents “Pandora’s box” for shopping and buying things. Pretty much everything is available to purchase online and the shipping is often included. Online purchasers receive reinforcement or pleasure on multiple levels including the shopping itself, then the purchase, and with internet retail, there is the additional bonus of having your purchase delivered to your doorstep! Every day can be a special occasion as you have the chance to rip open the non-descript boxes to find the surprise inside!

Human beings are vulnerable to addictions of all types as any activity that stimulates our pleasure circuits can become a habit. It is believed that when we experience pleasure it is the result of the neurotransmitter dopamine being released in our bran. Some people can experience a “high” from buying things. Other normal activities like eating, exercising, sex, and even playing video games can also trigger dopamine release.