Accumulative vs. Appreciative Materialism: Implications for Sustainable Apparel Consumption

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between appreciative and accumulative materialism and sustainable apparel consumption. Through the lens of the symbolic self-completion theory, self-esteem was assessed as a possible moderator. Usable data from 216 Auburn University students was collected by questionnaire via Qualtrics. The study used quantitative data analysis employing multiple linear regressions. Results found that appreciative materialism positively influences responsible disposal of apparel, intention to purchase sustainable apparel, and collaborative consumption for apparel. Accumulative materialism negatively influences responsible disposal of apparel and intention to purchase sustainable apparel, whereas it positively influences impulse buying of apparel. Self-esteem was not found to be a moderator, but instead is a predictor of accumulative materialism. Additionally, environmental concern was found to be a predictor of appreciative materialism. Based on these results appreciative and accumulative materialism are viable constructs that should further be explored in the context of sustainable consumer behavior.