The Relationship between Materialistic Values,Compulsive Buying and Fear of Negative Evaluation

Abstract

This study explores the psychological predictors of compulsive buying behavior (CBB), focusing on materialistic values and fear of negative evaluation (FNE) across two demographic groups—university students and working adults. Drawing from existing theoretical frameworks on emotional regulation, social anxiety, and consumer behavior, two correlational studies were conducted using standardized psychometric instruments: the Materialistic Values Scale (MVS), Brief Fear of Negative Evaluation Scale (BFNE), and the Compulsive Buying Scales(CBS). The Study 1, involving 150 working adults, examined the relationship between self-esteem, FNE, and CBB. Results showed that FNE was a significant predictor of compulsive buying, whereas self-esteem had a weaker predictive value. Study 2, conducted among 105 university students, found that materialistic values—especially the dimension of success—were significant predictors of compulsive buying behavior, while FNE was not a significant predictor in this group. Regression analyses revealed that different psychological constructs drive compulsive buying across age and occupational groups, with FNE more relevant for working individuals and materialistic values more impactful for students. The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of compulsive buying and suggest the need for differentiated intervention strategies. These could include emotional regulation training, value reorientation programs, and social anxiety reduction techniques. The study highlights the relevance of demographic factors in understanding consumer vulnerabilities and calls for context-sensitive mental health and consumer education interventions.