Psychopathology of Compulsive Hoarding Fact Sheet

• This 4-year NIMH funded project includes 3 studies.
• Study 1
  Examines the relationship of hoarding to other types of psychopathology, historical features of the problem, emotional attachments to possessions, and questions related to the possible causes of hoarding.
• Study 2
  Examines the cognitive and emotional reactions when trying to discard possessions. Study 2 is conducted in the participant's home.
• Study 3
  This study examines the cognitive and emotional reactions to attempting not acquire possessions. The study takes place in a location where acquisition typically occurs (i.e. - a store)
• Compensation and Time
  Participants will be compensated $20 per hour for their time. Intake is estimated to last 4 hours, Study One is estimated to last six hours, Study 2 and 3 are estimated to last 1.5 hours each. Participants can make up to $280 in total.
• Location
  These studies include appointments at home, in the clinic and also in locations where acquisition typically occurs for the participant.
• Inclusion Criteria
  Looking for participants 18 or older who have one of the following:
  1. A problem with compulsive hoarding (or)
  2. A diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (or)
  3. No significant psychiatric problems
• Exclusion Criteria
  Participants will NOT be included if they pose a suicide risk, have active psychotic symptoms, active substance abuse or dependence, or serious cognitive impairment.
• Medication & Psychotherapy Stabilization
  Participants must be stable for at least three months on medication prior to the start of the study. Participants must also not start a new therapeutic experience at least month prior to the start of the study.
• Telephone Screening
  Refer participants for a telephone screening to determine if they are eligible for the study. Refer participants to Jessica Rasmussen at The Boston University School of Social Work at (617) 358-4213.
• Diagnostic Interview
  The studies include a diagnostic interview which last approximately between 2 to 4 hours (this can be shortened if the SCID has already been completed within the last three months).