Name: Brynne Barnard-Bahn
Live Poster Session: Zoom Link
Brynne Barnard-Bahn
I am a sophomore from Sacramento, CA currently pursuing a double major in Computer Science & Studio Art with a minor in Data Analytics. Some of my hobbies include drawing, graphic design, & playing instruments. I am a member of WesMaSS and I work in the Athletics Department and Wesleyan Sound Cooperative.
Abstract: This study primarily examines the association between materialism and impulsive spending across different age groups, with a particular focus on younger adults. Materialism, defined as a value system that prioritizes material wealth as a source of happiness and a measure of success (Richins, 2004), has long been linked to consumption behaviors (Hamza, 2024). Impulsive buying, characterized by immediate and unplanned purchases, affects approximately 20%-30% of consumer purchases (Hamza, 2024) and is particularly prevalent among younger individuals (Antinienė, 2021; Hamza, 2024). Using the FinancialWB dataset, this study investigates how materialism , impulsivity, financial skills, life satisfaction, and demographic factors such as age and income influence impulsive spending behaviors. The research also explores whether financial skills can mitigate the effects of materialism on spending behavior. While financial skill scores exhibited a strong correlation with financial skills, the results also suggest that there are psychological & sociological factors that should be addressed. Results suggest a significant weak negative correlation between materialism and spending responsibly, particularly among individuals aged 18-24, even after controlling for income, age, financial literacy, and life satisfaction.