Understanding Credit Card Use Among Indian Consumers: Role of Materialistic Values and Compulsivity

The current research examines influence of materialism and compulsive-buying behavior on Indian consumers’ credit card use. Research in Western countries posits that materialistic values and compulsiveness influence credit card use. However, results of the research differ from earlier researches. It suggests that Indian consumers’ credit card use is influenced by materialism but not by compulsiveness. Credit cards may be acquired to represent a lifestyle and improve individual’s status. The symbolic value associated with credit card is higher than its functional attributes. Consumers associate it with material possessions that bequeath status to them.