TOP 20 RETAIL THERAPY BEHAVIOR STATISTICS 2025

When I started digging into retail therapy behavior statistics, I realized just how much our shopping habits are tied to emotions. We’ve all had those days where a little purchase feels like the perfect pick-me-up—whether it’s a cozy sweater, a shiny new gadget, or even a quirky pair of socks that makes you smile. Shopping, for many, isn’t just about acquiring things; it’s about creating moments of comfort and joy. As I went through the data, I couldn’t help but see the stories behind the numbers—moments of celebration, coping with stress, or simply wanting a small spark of happiness. These stats reveal that retail therapy is not just a modern indulgence, but a deeply human experience.

Top 20 Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics 2025(Editor's Choice)

 

Top 20 Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics 2025

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #1 – 47% of U.S. Consumers Engage in Retail Therapy to Improve Mood

Nearly half of U.S. consumers admit to shopping as a way to boost their mood, with food and clothing topping the list of purchases. This suggests retail therapy is a widely accepted coping mechanism for emotional lows. The preference for tangible items like apparel and meals indicates people seek sensory and immediate gratification. Such behaviors can have both positive and negative consequences depending on frequency and spending control. This trend highlights the importance of understanding emotional triggers in consumer buying patterns.

 

 

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #2 – 80% Globally Made at Least One Splurge Purchase to Lift Mood

A global study found that eight in ten people across 23 countries indulged in a splurge purchase recently to feel better. This shows that retail therapy is not limited to specific cultures or economic statuses. The universality of mood-driven spending suggests deep psychological roots in human behavior. Cross-cultural similarities in this pattern make it a valuable area for global marketing strategies. It also raises questions about how consumer well-being is tied to access to discretionary income.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #3 – 30% of Americans Bought Items to Improve Mood

Almost one-third of Americans reported making purchases specifically to improve their mood within the last year. This reveals that retail therapy is not just an occasional act but a common behavior among U.S. shoppers. The frequency indicates that shopping serves as a recurring emotional outlet for many. Businesses can use this insight to design promotions that resonate with mood-based motivations. However, overuse of retail therapy could contribute to overspending or debt if not managed.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #4 – 15% Regret Purchases, 41% Say Retail Therapy Adds to Debt

While retail therapy can provide temporary happiness, it sometimes leads to financial regret. Fifteen percent of Americans say they regret such purchases, and 41% acknowledge increased debt from them. This reveals a potential downside to emotional spending. Financial education and budgeting tools could help consumers enjoy retail therapy without negative consequences. It also points to the importance of self-control in mood-based shopping decisions.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #5 – 33% of Women vs. 26% of Men Shopped to Improve Mood

Gender differences in retail therapy are evident, with women engaging more often than men. This could be due to cultural norms, societal expectations, or differing coping mechanisms. Marketing campaigns often target women more heavily for mood-related purchases. However, men still represent a significant portion of retail therapy participants. Understanding these differences can help tailor gender-specific marketing and well-being programs.

 

 

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #6 – 62% of Shoppers Bought Something to Cheer Themselves Up

A majority of shoppers have intentionally bought items to lift their spirits. This behavior shows the strong emotional connection between shopping and mood enhancement. The prevalence suggests that many view retail therapy as a normal and acceptable activity. Retailers often leverage this tendency with targeted offers during stressful times of the year. While beneficial for short-term mood, frequent indulgence may create financial strain.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #7 – 62% of Purchases by Regular Shoppers Are Mood-Lifters

For regular shoppers, over half of their purchases are made with the intention of improving mood. This highlights the central role emotional motivation plays in shopping habits. Such behavior can boost sales for brands that align products with emotional appeal. It also suggests that mood-driven marketing strategies can be highly effective. However, it raises concerns about long-term spending habits and consumer self-control.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #8 – 82% Report Positive Feelings After Retail Therapy

An overwhelming majority feel happier after engaging in retail therapy. This suggests that the practice can be effective in reducing negative emotions. The lack of significant buyer’s remorse indicates positive reinforcement for the behavior. Retailers can benefit from creating enjoyable shopping experiences to enhance these feelings. Yet, the long-term sustainability of this mood boost remains a point of discussion among psychologists.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #9 – Purchases 40× More Effective Than Browsing for Reducing Sadness

Research shows that actually buying something is far more effective than just browsing when it comes to mood improvement. The act of making a purchase creates a sense of accomplishment and reward. Browsing alone does not trigger the same level of emotional satisfaction. This insight can be used to encourage small, affordable purchases rather than window-shopping. It underscores the power of ownership in driving emotional change.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #10 – Average 3 Impulse Buys Per 10 Store Visits

On average, shoppers make three unplanned purchases every ten times they shop in-store. This statistic illustrates the pervasiveness of impulse buying. Retail layouts and promotions often intentionally encourage such purchases. Mood-driven impulse buys are particularly common in certain product categories like snacks and accessories. While profitable for retailers, this can contribute to unnecessary spending for consumers.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #11 – Singles 45% More Likely to Impulse Buy

Single shoppers are significantly more prone to impulse buying than those in relationships. This could be linked to lifestyle differences and independent decision-making. Singles may use shopping as a form of self-reward or emotional outlet. Retailers might target this demographic with personalized offers. However, this group may also be more vulnerable to overspending without shared financial accountability.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #12 – 13% Less Likely to Impulse Buy on Planned Trips, 23% More on Unplanned

The nature of the shopping trip strongly influences spending behavior. Planned trips tend to reduce impulse buying, while unplanned visits increase it. This indicates that spontaneity plays a large role in emotional spending. Retailers can capitalize on this by creating in-store experiences that encourage unplanned purchases. Consumers, on the other hand, can limit overspending by planning their shopping activities.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #13 – 52% of Millennials Most Likely to Make Impulse Purchases

Millennials are the leading generation for impulse shopping. This may be due to their comfort with digital shopping and exposure to targeted ads. The combination of convenience and marketing influence creates fertile ground for mood-based purchases. Brands aiming for this demographic should focus on mobile-first and visually appealing campaigns. Financial literacy efforts may also be crucial for this group.

 

 

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #14 – 63.9% of Women vs. 39.8% of Men Engaged in Retail Therapy

Historical data shows that women have consistently engaged more in retail therapy than men. This reflects both consumer behavior trends and targeted marketing over time. The gap highlights persistent gender-based preferences in shopping. However, the participation rate among men is still significant. These patterns can guide inclusive retail strategies that appeal to both genders.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #15 – In-Store Shopping Triggers 40% Impulse Buying vs. 25% Online

Physical retail environments stimulate more spontaneous purchases than online stores. Factors like sensory experiences and in-person promotions contribute to this difference. Retailers use layout, product placement, and atmosphere to influence buying decisions. Online shopping, while still prone to impulse buys, lacks some of these triggers. This insight helps businesses adjust their sales strategies across platforms.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #16 – Retail Therapy Aids Long-Term Emotional Regulation

Beyond immediate gratification, retail therapy can help people manage emotions over time. This suggests shopping may serve as an ongoing coping mechanism. It can provide structure, distraction, and comfort during stressful periods. However, reliance on retail therapy for long-term regulation carries financial risks. Balanced approaches to mood management are essential for overall well-being.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #17 – UK Spending Rose: Beauty/Pharmacy +9.8%, Clothing +4.2%

The “lipstick effect” is evident as consumers increase spending on small luxuries during economic uncertainty. In the UK, beauty and pharmacy products saw the largest gains. Clothing purchases also rose, though at a slower rate. This trend shows how certain categories thrive even in challenging times. It offers valuable insights for retailers looking to adapt product lines during downturns.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #18 – Ulta Revenue Rose 4.5% to $2.8B During Retail Slump

Ulta’s growth during a wider retail slowdown demonstrates the resilience of beauty-related retail therapy. Beauty products are perceived as affordable indulgences. They provide emotional comfort while being less financially burdensome than big-ticket items. This resilience makes beauty a strategic category for retailers. The data reinforces the link between emotional appeal and sales stability.

 

 

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #19 – 8–16% Show Shopping Addiction Tendencies; 2–5% Clinical

A significant portion of the population exhibits compulsive buying behaviors. Clinical shopping addiction affects up to 5%, while a broader 16% show risk factors. These behaviors can lead to serious financial and emotional consequences. Understanding these patterns is important for consumer protection and awareness. Retailers must also navigate the ethics of marketing to vulnerable groups.

---

Retail Therapy Behavior Statistics #20 – 30–50% Have Spending Self-Control Issues

Nearly half of people struggle with controlling their spending. This includes both occasional overspending and habitual financial mismanagement. Retail therapy can exacerbate these tendencies if not moderated. Financial education, spending limits, and mindful shopping practices can help. Recognizing the prevalence of this issue is key for both consumers and retailers.

Understanding the Emotional Side of Shopping

Looking at these retail therapy behavior statistics, it’s clear that shopping goes far beyond transactions—it’s an emotional ritual for many. Whether it’s the thrill of finding a deal, the comfort of a familiar store, or the confidence boost from something new, each purchase tells its own story. These numbers also remind us to shop mindfully, enjoying the emotional benefits without falling into financial pitfalls. Retail therapy can be a positive force when balanced with self-awareness and budgeting. In the end, it’s about finding joy in the little things, while keeping our spending as intentional as the moments we’re trying to create.

SOURCES

1. https://chainstoreage.com/survey-nearly-half-consumers-engage-retail-therapy-improve-mood

2. https://www.forbes.com/sites/pamdanziger/2023/05/15/why-retail-therapy-is-so-therapeutic

3. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/data-retail-therapy

4. https://www.claritychi.com/blog/the-science-behind-retail-therapy

5. https://www.invespcro.com/blog/impulse-buying

6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retail_therapy

7. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shopping_addiction

8. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/383773484_The_Emotional_Dimensions_of_Retail_Therapy_A_Literature_Review

9. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/oasis-and-the-lipstick-effect-raised-spending-in-july-jk7xnb85l

10. https://www.businessinsider.com/ulta-earnings-customers-buying-beauty-products-escape-stress-makeup-2025-5

11. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2013/shopping