Paco Underhill: Retail therapy still alive and well

The Boston Globe: They may not be thousands of dollars in debt like the protagonist of "Confessions of a Shopaholic," which hits theaters next week, but hardcore shoppers are not giving up their retail therapy. Despite an economy that's on life support and a consumer confidence index that is about as stable as a jellyfish, some shoppers have yet to abandon their favorite boutiques and department stores.

"Retail therapy is still alive and kicking," says Paco Underhill, an expert on retail and the author of books such as "Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping" and "The Call of the Mall." "There are a number of well-adjusted folks who continue to seek shopping as a way to reduce their stress. And that's not going to stop."

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