What term describes individuals who shop to avoid dealing with the stresses of daily life?

The term that describes individuals who shop to avoid dealing with the stresses of daily life is "avoidance spenders." This label captures the behavior of individuals who engage in shopping as a coping mechanism, seeking temporary relief from anxiety or emotional distress through the act of purchasing goods or services.

Avoidance spending can provide a momentary distraction from life’s challenges, allowing individuals to feel a sense of control or pleasure, albeit often short-lived. Adopting shopping as a way of coping can lead to financial challenges if it becomes a regular practice to mitigate stress rather than addressing the underlying issues directly.

The other terms offered, while related to spending behaviors, do not specifically align with the idea of shopping as a means of avoidance. Therapeutic spenders might engage in shopping as a form of self-care or emotional well-being, although this does not necessarily imply a negative relationship with money or an avoidance of daily life stresses. Recreational spenders view shopping as an enjoyable activity but typically do not link it to emotional distress management. Utilitarian spenders focus on practical purchases rather than emotional escapism, prioritizing necessity over emotional fulfillment. Hence, "avoidance spenders" accurately describes the mindset and behavior of individuals who shop primarily to escape stress.