Characteristics of People Who Hoard: A Closer Look at the Behavior and Its Impacts

By The Hoarding Connection of Cuyahoga CountyJanuary 1, 2025

Hoarding is a complex behavioral condition that goes beyond simply collecting items. It is often associated with emotional distress, difficulties in decision-making and impaired social and functional abilities.

Here are some of the key characteristics of people who hoard, their behavior patterns, potential triggers and the challenges they face.

1. Early Onset and Gradual Escalation

Hoarding tendencies typically begin in childhood or adolescence, though they may not manifest as a serious issue until later in life. The behavior often intensifies as the person grows older, becoming more noticeable and problematic over time. A significant number of cases are linked to a triggering traumatic event, such as the death of a loved one, divorce or financial hardship, which may exacerbate the compulsion to hoard.

2. Social Behavior and Isolation

While individuals who hoard may appear socially active and engaged in public settings, they often avoid inviting others into their homes. The cluttered and disorganized state of their living spaces leads to embarrassment or shame, fostering isolation from friends and family. This social withdrawal can deepen over time, reinforcing the cycle of hoarding behavior.

3. Acquisition Habits

People who hoard are often drawn to acquiring items from various sources, such as:

  • Retail stores
  • Garage sales and flea markets
  • Curbside “free piles” and tree lawns
  • Online shopping platforms like QVC and catalogs
  • Dumpsters

The sheer volume of items they bring home can quickly overwhelm their living spaces, contributing to unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

4. Cognitive and Organizational Difficulties

Hoarders frequently struggle with executive functioning, which impacts their ability to:

  • Pay attention and prioritize tasks
  • Organize their belongings
  • Make decisions about what to keep or discard

This inability to effectively manage their possessions leads to an accumulation of clutter, creating physical and emotional barriers to daily life.

5. Attachment to Objects

Hoarders often perceive great beauty or utility in the items they collect, even when others see them as worthless or unnecessary. This strong emotional attachment makes it exceedingly difficult for them to let go of possessions, regardless of their actual value or practicality.

6. Anxiety Around Discarding Items

The prospect of discarding items triggers intense anxiety and resistance in hoarders. For many, the idea of getting rid of possessions feels akin to losing a part of themselves. This fear of loss outweighs any potential benefits, such as cleaner spaces or improved relationships with loved ones. This makes the process of decluttering an uphill battle that requires patience, empathy, and professional guidance.