Compulsive hoarding: current controversies and new directions

Compulsive hoarding is a disabling psychological disorder characterized by excessive collecting and saving behavior. This article reviews four key areas of recent advances in hoarding research. First, we provide an overview of the evolving controversy regarding the diagnostic status of hoarding, highlighting accumulating evidence that it may be best conceptualized as a separate syndrome. Second, we describe advances in our understanding of the epidemiology, course, and demographic features of compulsive hoarding. Third, we review the latest findings regarding possible neuropsychological correlates of the disorder. Finally, we discuss ongoing progress and future directions related to the clinical management of compulsive hoarding.