On acquirement and consumption of possessions

Journal/Book: Z Sozpsychol. 1996; 27: Langgass-Strasse 76, CH-3000 Bern 9, Switzerland. Verlag Hans Huber. 193-206.

Abstract: The theories presented in this review were collected according to their power to explain non-functional consumer behavior. The historical retrospective shows two basic assumptions for most of these theories: One is consumption for self-indulgence, the other one is for communication with the public. Those theories that are related to the self explain consumption for reasons of self-contemplation, self-cultivation, being part of the self or self-extension, consistence with the self, realization of ideals of the self, uniqueness of the self and development of a self-concept. On the otherhand, conspicuous consumption is explained by status symbolization, by integration in or differentiation from cultural groups, and by promotion or completion of competence.

Note: Article A Knapp, Univ Mainz, Inst Psychol, D-55099 Mainz, Germany

Keyword(s): conspicuous consumption; self-indulgence and self-cultivation; acquisition of material possessions; status symbolization; materialism; PSYCHOLOGY; THINGS; SELF

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On acquirement and consumption of possessions - A review