Coping with crises: Consumption and social resilience on markets

Abstract

Crises, especially economic crises are an immanent element of modern market societies. While some research has been devoted to understanding the consequences of such crises on consumption, a systematic integrative approach to this problem is still missing. In this editorial we develop an encompassing model for the study of crises and consumption, to identify and connect the different elements important for understanding and explaining the relationship. Thereafter we present the papers of this special issue and discuss their contributions, based on the proposed framework. Suggestions for future research conclude the editorial.

Consumption dynamics during recession and recovery: A learning journey

“…Crises affect consumption on multiple levels and ways, with a major impact on lifestyles, consumption patterns, routines, worldviews and well-being (Koos et al 2017).…”

“…The 21st Century economic crisis, which was originated in the United States but extended to other countries and seriously affected Eurozone, has affected consumer behaviour, pressuring consumers to make more rational trade-offs in face of diminished resources. Economic recessions imply contexts of change in lifestyles, consumption patterns and routines, constituting an adequate scenario for studying modifications in consumption (Puelles, Diaz-Bustamante & Carcelén, 2016;Koos, Vihalemm & Keller, 2017). According to Quelch and Jocz (2009), when a recession is deeper and more prolonged there is a greater possibility of profound transformations in consumer behaviour.…”

“…Despite its relevance and increasing research interest, little is known about consumption decisions during recessions (e.g. Alonso, Rodríguez & Rojo, 2015Kaytaz & Gul, 2014;Koos et al, 2017). For example, it is critical to better understand how consumers reassess priorities, reallocate funds, switch brands and redefine value (Quelch and Jocz, 2009: 57).…”

“…The persistence of changes in consumption patterns in the post-recession stage is also overlooked since most part of the research in the field examines behaviour and attitudes at one particular point in time (e.g. Koos et al, 2017;Zurawicki & Braidot, 2005).…”

Consumption as a social integration strategy in times of crisis: The case of vulnerable households

“…From an economic sociology perceptive, Koos, Vihalemm, and Keller (2017) have proposed a model that describes changes in consumer behaviour due to the type of crisis, context and specific consumer characteristics. This model also incorporates the impact that these changes have in turn on the consumer and the context, recognizing a kind of feedback effect.…”