Why do people buy things they don't need?

I think people often buy things they don’t really need because shopping is not always a rational activity. A lot of the time, it is connected with emotions. For example, someone may buy a new pair of shoes after a stressful week because it gives them a quick sense of reward. In that moment, the purchase feels justified, even if they already have several similar pairs at home. Another reason is social pressure. People are constantly exposed to advertising, influencers, and friends showing off new products, so they may feel that buying certain things helps them keep up with others. Shopping malls are especially good at encouraging this, because the lighting, displays, music, and discounts all create a feeling that you might miss out if you do not buy something immediately. There is also the issue of convenience and habit. When products are easy to access and payment is quick, people do not always stop to think carefully. So, in many cases, unnecessary shopping happens because companies understand human psychology very well, while consumers are often making decisions based on mood, comparison, or impulse rather than real need.