status consumption

Status consumption refers to the practice of buying and displaying goods or possessions to signal one's social standing or status to others. People often choose luxury brands, designer items, or high-end experiences not just for their quality, but to convey success, prestige, and membership in certain social groups. This behavior is often driven by the desire for social approval and recognition, and it can influence purchasing decisions based on the perceived social value rather than purely functional needs. Essentially, status consumption is about using possessions as symbols to communicate one's position within a social hierarchy.