Khaberni - Recent psychological research has revealed a serious direct relationship between the feeling of loneliness and materialism (the tendency to acquire and value things), where it has been shown that both factors feed each other in a vicious cycle known scientifically as the "materialism trap."
In a longitudinal study conducted by consumer behavior researcher "Rick Peters" on more than 2000 participants in the Netherlands over 6 years, changes in levels of loneliness and materialism were tracked with adjustments for demographic variables such as age, income, and education.
The results showed that the feeling of loneliness is a strong motivator for increased materialism; isolated individuals tend to link success to material achievements, and consider purchasing as a primary means to achieve happiness and fill the emotional void.
Conversely, the study found that excessive focus on acquiring luxury goods in turn enhances the feeling of loneliness, as individuals replace their pursuit of building fulfilling social relationships with a preoccupation with shopping and purchasing, leading to a weakening of human bonds over time.
Experts explain that relying on "retail therapy" provides a temporary feeling of comfort and control similar to the effect of pain relievers, but it does not address the root of the problem.
The study advises individuals to examine the psychological motivations behind the sudden urge to buy; if the real goal is to seek appreciation or connection, then delaying the purchase decision for 24 hours and directing that energy towards enhancing social relationships is an effective and more sustainable solution for mental health.
