Everyone knows one person who seems to be addicted to shopping. Whether it’s done online or at the mall, shopping can be a dangerous habit for people who are looking to grow wealthy. People who are addicted to spending money can be good friends, and even good spouses (aside from the spending habit), but the fact is that it is still a dangerous addiction…and it’s one that could easily put you at risk of financial turmoil. Not sure whether you are a shopaholic? Not sure if your spouse would qualify? Here’s a list of common symptoms and signs.
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+Shopaholics will make up excuses to go shopping.
+They may buy things they don’t need, and when asked why they bought it, cannot produce an answer.
+They may get defensive about their shopping habits.
+They may avoid the topic of the family budget, simply because they feel guilty about their spending habits.
+You might find items hidden around the house that don’t make sense. (“Hey, why do we have a saddle in the basement?!â€)
+They justify spending in ways that don’t really make sense. (Example: “Why did you buy five sets of markers?†“Because we might need them…for something…later on…not really….â€)
+People have approached you, asking how your spouse can afford to spend so much money.
+You are shocked at the monthly credit card payments you have to make.
+Every month seems to bring more and more charges on credit cards from stores like Bloomingdales, Macy’s, or even furniture stores.
+Your spouses requests for money continue to increase, even though they know that your salary has remained constant.
+Your spouse throws a fit if you refuse to buy them something, or refuse to allow them to buy something.
+You have tried to get your spouse to stop spending so much money on things they don’t need, but they won’t listen, or they change the subject.
+If your spouse cannot go shopping for a day, they behave as if they are in withdrawal.
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Shopping is a necessary part of life, but when it becomes an addiction, it can destroy a family. If you feel like your spouse is a shopaholic, you have to understand that they are going to have to learn how to stop unnecessary spending. There are programs out there which can help families succeed when it comes to stopping the spending addiction, but most of the effortt that will have to take place will have to take place at home.