Exploring differences between women and men in treatment-seeking patients with compulsive buying-shopping disorder

Abstract

Abstract Compulsive buying-shopping disorder (CBSD) is associated with emotional distress, reduced daily functioning, and frequent comorbid mental health conditions. In previous research, CBSD has traditionally been conceptualized as a predominantly female disorder, with most existing data derived from primarily female samples. This study examined gender differences in a treatment-seeking sample with CBSD, focusing on sociodemographic factors, mental comorbidities, buying/shopping preferences, symptom severity, and therapy participation. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 141 adults (73.8% women) diagnosed with CBSD at an outpatient clinic for behavioral addictions (2017–2025). Data included sociodemographic variables, ICD-10 comorbidities, buying/shopping environment, preferred consumer products, and group therapy attendance. Psychometric measures (Pathological Buying Screener, PBS; Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale 7, GAD-7; Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9) assessed symptoms of CBSD, anxiety, and depression. Group comparisons used Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests. Women more often compulsively purchased clothing, shoes, bags, cosmetics, and jewelry (all p ≤ .004, V = 0.18–0.36); men preferred electronics ( p < .001, V = 0.32). Women showed slightly higher CBSD severity (PBS: Mdn = 56 vs. 52, p = .044, r = .17). Overall, no significant differences between women and men were found in comorbid mental disorders, neither in GAD-7/PHQ-9 scores (all p > .05) nor in clinical diagnoses (all p > .004 after Bonferroni correction). No group differences emerged for age, education, relationship status, or therapy participation (all p > .05). Gender differences in CBSD presentation—particularly regarding product preferences—emphasize the need for gender-sensitive perspectives to enhance treatment outcomes, while also highlighting that men and women differ only in specific aspects.