Impulsive behavior in a consumer culture.

INTRODUCTION: Compulsive shopping behaviour has recently received long overdue attention as a clinical issue. Curiosity about this condition has led to questions about its identification, characterization as a disorder, and treatment.

METHOD: This article presents two case vignettes illustrating diagnostic criteria and points that distinguish this disorder from OCD hoarding or mania. These issues are discussed.

RESULTS: The authors present some suggested treatment approaches

CONCLUSION: Greater awareness of the prevalence and social consequences of compulsive shopping behaviour highlights the need for treatment and for educational resources for clinicians and the general public. (Int J Psych Clin Pract 2002; 6: 65-68).