The Impact of Materialism, Counseling, and Financial Status on Physical Health

Abstract

Materialism displays the significance a person places on possessions. Prior literature has shown that materialism has had negative implications on health. Medical family therapy is a systemic, biopsychosocial model utilized to aid individuals and their families experiencing health problems. This study explored how living a materialistic lifestyle impacts physical health. A hierarchical multiple regression displayed statistically insignificant findings for materialism and physical health. However, self-reported finances and counseling were both statistically significant predictors of physical health. Looking at materialism through a systemic lens, allowed for a comprehensive conceptualization of physical health problems. Limitations, clinical implications, and future directions are provided.

Keywords:

• Marriage and family therapy
• materialism
• medical family therapy
• overconsumption
• physical health