Impulse buying is characterized by what behavior?

Impulse buying is fundamentally characterized by making unplanned purchases that arise from emotional triggers. This behavior typically occurs when a consumer sees a product and is overcome by an immediate desire to buy it, often without considering the necessity or utility of the item. This reaction is usually influenced by factors such as mood, advertising, promotions, or the physical appeal of the product, which can prompt spontaneous decisions at the point of sale.

In contrast, making planned purchases based on necessity reflects a more deliberate decision-making process where consumers evaluate their needs prior to making a purchase. Researching and comparing products involves critical thinking and evaluation of options, which is the opposite of the impulsive nature of the buying behavior in question. Similarly, resisting the urge to buy non-essential items signifies a conscious effort to avoid impulse purchases, highlighting self-control rather than the impulsive buying characteristic itself. Overall, option B provides the most accurate depiction of impulse buying behavior.