Affect intolerance and hoarding symptoms: A structural equation modeling approach

Abstract

Hoarding is characterized by chronic saving, usually acquiring, and clutter. Cognitive- behavioral theories highlight the role of avoiding negative emotions in hoarding. One factor that may explain this avoidance is one's ability to tolerate negative emotions, termed affect intolerance. Although research has supported associations between hoarding and facets of affect intolerance, no study has investigated the relationship between hoarding and a more broadly defined affect intolerance factor (indicated by four factors). We examined how hoarding related to an affect intolerance latent factor and how saving beliefs and indecision modified this relationship. Two hundred forty-one undergraduates completed questionnaires about affect intolerance, hoarding, saving beliefs, and indecision. Affect intolerance was associated with hoarding, and saving beliefs, but not indecision, moderated this relationship. These findings support cognitive-behavioral theories of hoarding. Experimental studies could elucidate whether affect intolerance is a risk factor for hoarding. Replication in a clinical sample may inform intervention targets.