Risk Factors
Throughout the medical world, there is often a discussion about why and how hoarding begins. Medical professionals simply cannot find a single answer to those inquiries. However, many have an idea about how hoarding behaviors are triggered. Hoarding behaviors typically arise in the early adolescent years between 11-15. The behaviors worsen as the individual grows older.
The triggers or risk factors for developing hoarding mainly involve the environment, as well as the person’s personality. Family history, stressful events, and an unstable household can increase the risk of hoarding addiction. That said, personality plays the largest role. Those who develop hoarding addiction often have traits such as indecisiveness and anxiety.
Looking at family history and stress, it is common for children of hoarders to become hoarders themselves. Stress from traumatic events, like natural disasters, accidents, divorce, death, eviction, and so on will often spur hoarding behaviors.
