“The study suggests that when you’re feeling as if things aren’t going your way, getting exactly what you want can feel like a positive personal achievement,” Dr. In this study, those who actually purchased items were also three times less sad, when compared to those who only browsed.
This is true for residual sadness we may be feeling as well.Īnother 2014 study by University of Michigan showed that purchasing things you personally enjoy can be up to 40 times more effective at giving you a sense of control than not shopping. The choices and outcomes inherent in the act of shopping can restore a feeling of personal control and autonomy. It can also ease feelings of sadness.Ī 2014 study from the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that retail therapy not only makes people happier immediately, but it can also fight lingering sadness.Īccording to the study, sadness is generally associated with a sense that situations are in control of the outcomes in our life, rather than life being in our own hands. Research has shown that making shopping decisions can help reinforce a sense of personal control over our environment. But again, you want to make sure it doesn’t get out of hand.”Īccording to Dr. “Even window shopping or online browsing can bring brain-fueled happiness. “Whether you’re adding items to your shopping cart online or visiting your favorite boutique for a few hours, you do get a psychological and emotional boost.” he adds. “Research suggests there’s actually a lot of psychological and therapeutic value when you’re shopping - if done in moderation, of course,” he says. Yes, in fact it does, says clinical psychologist Scott Bea, PsyD. Policyīut does shopping really help us feel better? We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.
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