Aftermath of an explosion : lived experiences of compulsive hoarders

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to explore the experiences of people who compulsively hoard and how they make sense of their own hoarding behaviour (HB). Research studies have revealed that people with hoarding typically collect and keep items due to their aesthetic appeal, utility, and strong emotional attachment to them resulting in clutter and limiting living spaces. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of individuals with hoarding disorder (HD). Objective: The objectives of this study were to explore: (i) what persons with hoarding behaviour perceived as the causal triggers of their behaviour; (ii) the impact of living with a hoarding behaviour on their quality of life; (iii) the coping strategies adopted by individuals who hoard, and (iv) to identify available support strategies and recommendations. Design: A qualitative approach following the principles of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Setting: Depending on the participants' preferences, three interviews were conducted at the participants' homes whilst two interviews were held in a public space. Participants: Five participants with compulsive HB consisting of two females and three males Methodology: A total of five participants with compulsive HB were recruited and interviewed using a simple semi-structured interview format, designed for the purposes of the study. The resulting transcribed interviews were analysed using interpretive- phenomenological analysis. Results: Three super-ordinate themes emerged: ‘Unearthing the roots of HB, ‘Aftermath of an explosion’ and ‘Reclaiming spaces, restoring lives.’ In the first super-ordinate theme ‘Unearthing the roots of HB, the participants explained how their HB could have been triggered by poverty, attachment needs, expected behaviour and loss of a close family member. The second super-ordinate theme ‘Aftermath of an explosion’ focused on the impact of HB. Participants explained how their HB affected them emotionally, functionally, psychologically, spirituality, physically and their interpersonal relationships (participants spoke about the impact of HB on the relationships with their family members and friends). The third super-ordinate theme ‘Reclaiming spaces, restoring lives’ explored the strategies used by participants to try to cope with their HB. Conclusion: This study provides new insights into the significant reliance on HCP among individuals with HB, broadening our understanding of the necessary support systems in the context of hoarding. While HCP support can be beneficial, it is crucial to implement it in a manner that respects the autonomy and needs of the patients. Individuals with HB should be empowered to make their own decisions. The findings of this study and their implications aim to provide HCP with a better understanding of the impact of living with HB and the coping strategies employed. This understanding can contribute to the development of appropriate interventions, as suggested by the researcher conducting this study.