Money disorder

Money disorders refer to problematic financial beliefs and behaviors that cause significant distress and hinder social or occupational well-being, often stemming from financial stress or an inability to use financial resources effectively. They are described as enduring patterns of self-destructive financial behavior, also called disordered money behaviors, that people adopt to cope with emotional pain. The term is contentious: as of 2023 money disorder is not a clinical diagnosis in either the DSM or the ICD. The literature identifies eight behavioral patterns, among them pathological gambling, compulsive buying, hoarding, workaholism, financial dependence and financial denial. Some practitioners recommend financial therapy, in which financial planners and therapists work together. This entry records a debated concept and is not advice for diagnosis.