By: Erin Sherbert
What is compulsive hoarding? Compulsive hoarding is defined as the acquisition of and failure to discard a large number of possessions that ... would appear to be useless or of limited value. This behavior is an attempt to postpone or decrease distress or anxiety.
What are the signs of compulsive hoarding? Piles of paper, containers, clothing, plastic bags, mail, books and food are some of the items that are commonly hoarded.
How does someone become a hoarder? A person becomes a compulsive hoarder when they acquire or fail to discard to the point that their homes become unsafe [and] unhealthy, and their behavior presents problems in functioning at home, work or in the community..." More
