The effect of emotional self-control on buy now pay later use and life satisfaction

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the role of Emotional Self-Control (ESC) in explaining Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) usage and its implications for financial well-being (FWB) and satisfaction with life (SWL). Methodology/approach: Drawing on the initiatory self-control perspective, this research adopted a cross-sectional design through an online survey involving 160 participants from Bandung and its surrounding regions. Respondents were selected using an accidental sampling technique. The hypothesized relationships were examined using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings: The results show that emotional self-control has a significant negative association with BNPL usage. Higher BNPL usage is associated with greater current money management stress, lower perceived future financial security, and reduced satisfaction with life. Furthermore, both dimensions of financial well-being function as mediating mechanisms in the relationship between BNPL usage and life satisfaction. Current money management stress negatively influences life satisfaction, while expected future financial security contributes positively to life satisfaction. Practical and Theoretical contribution/Originality: This study extends initiatory self-control theory to digital financial decision-making by showing the indirect role of emotional self-control in enhancing financial well-being and life satisfaction through reduced BNPL usage. The findings provide insights for consumers, BNPL providers, and policymakers in promoting responsible digital credit behaviour. Research Limitation: The cross-sectional design and the exclusive focus on emotional self-control limit causal inference and the generalizability of the findings.