Perceived control: A general psychological vulnerability factor for hoarding

Abstract

Perceived control, the degree to which the environment is believed to be within an individual’s control, has been identified as a key vulnerability factor among numerous anxiety conditions. Specifically, it has been suggested that a sense of uncontrollability over potentially threatening events and emotions leads to increased fear and avoidance behaviors. Patterns of behavioral avoidance are central to theoretical models and observations of hoarding. However, no studies to date have examined the associations between perceived control and hoarding. The primary aim of the current study was to examine relationships between perceived control and hoarding behaviors. Participants consisted of undergraduate students (N=180). As predicted, perceived control was significantly associated with increased hoarding severity even after controlling for overall negative affect. In addition, perceived control was significantly associated with several more specific hoarding behaviors including acquiring and difficulty discarding. When examining specific perceived control subfactors, only the threat control subfactor was associated with increased hoarding severity. The current study supports previous research suggesting that diminished perceived control over aversive events is central to the development and maintenance of numerous anxiety-related conditions. Moreover, the current study adds to a growing body of literature identifying potential risk factors for hoarding.