Maladaptive consumption: Definition, theoretical framework, and research propositions

Martin Reimann, Shailendra Pratap Jain

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

15 Scopus citations

Abstract

Maladaptive consumption represents potentially uncontrollable and self-and others-harming consumer choices to fulfill a desire for rewarding substances and behaviors. More recently, maladaptive consumption has emerged as a pivotal interest within consumer research, and a deliberation of current developments regarding consumers’ misuse of substances and their repetitive engagement in certain behaviors highlights its acute importance. After summarizing both long-standing and emerging types of maladaptive consumption, we review mounting evidence and provide a working definition and an integrative theoretical framework for understanding antecedents, types, explanations, and consequences of maladaptive consumption. Finally, we close with a limited identification of propositions and research themes that suggest avenues for future research.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)308-313
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research
Volume6
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2021
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Applied Psychology
  • Economics and Econometrics
  • Marketing

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