Keeping shopping bags and boxes doesn’t mean you’re a hoarder, psychology says
Many people save everyday items like plastic bags and boxes, often feeling sheepish. However, psychologists distinguish this from clinical hoarding disorder, which stems from a deep, debilitating attachment to possessions. While some save items out of a 'preparedness' mindset, true hoarders struggle to separate their identity from their belongings, experiencing distress when discarding them. The research suggests the average saver has less attachment than assumed.
Many people save everyday items like plastic bags and boxes, often feeling sheepish. However, psychologists distinguish this from clinical hoarding disorder, which stems from a deep, debilitating attachment to possessions. While some save items out of a 'preparedness' mindset, true hoarders struggle to separate their identity from their belongings, experiencing distress when discarding them. The research suggests the average saver has less attachment than assumed.
