This theory argues that materialism cultivates an extrinsic aspiration to status-seeking through perpetual doubt about one’s self-worth. By this perspective, whatever benefits objects offer in understanding our identity or its significance are overshadowed by the costs of this inauthentic extrinsic orientation.



Syracuse University

Individualistic individuals see objects as a means of expressing themselves, through possessions gain a sense of self-concept and seek to establish a clear identity through a reflection of their belongings. Moreover, individuals often depict their ego ideals through certain objects, for example, an expensive car, which can represent an ideal self-image. It is commonly argued that material objects give the individual the ability to create personal and social significance. 

Psychological role of objects

Keefer, L. A., & Rothschild, Z. K. (2021). Attachment anxiety mitigates the well-being costs of object attachment. Journal of Individual Differences, 42(1), 41–56. https://doi-org.libezproxy2.syr.edu/10.1027/1614-0001/a000328

Attachment anxiety mitigates the well-being costs of object attachment

Self-Determination Theory

A materialistic driven orientation not only diminishes the role of others into instruments of self-gratification, but also poses great costs to the individual self. Deriving self-worth from the material items one owns is inevitably an external source of worth, one that seeks to impress others, stems from other people’s values rather than one’s own and is insecure, as these objects can be stolen, lost, or break, thusly leading to an inadequate, shallow, easily wavered sense of worth. 

Materialism and self-worth

The term 'conspicuous consumption,' coined by Thorstein Veblen, refers to the purchase of goods and services with the primary goal of publicly signaling one's social and economic status. This concept explains how consumption choices—regarding the quality, quantity, and cost of items—serve as a social signal, communicating an individual's standing relative to others.

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