Gail Steketee

"Frost and Steketee were the first scientists to study hoarding when they began their work. With vivid portraits that show us the traits by which you can identify a hoarder, the authors explain the causes and outline the often ineffective treatments for the disorder while illuminating the pull that possessions exert on all of us." "What possesses someone to save every scrap of paper that's ever come into his home? What compulsions drive a woman like...

Hoarding is a serious, time-consuming, and expensive problem for virtually every community across the United States. First responders often encounter hoarding unexpectedly and are confused about how to resolve the wide range of problems, from public health and fire safety violations, to housing violations, to concern for the welfare of children, elders and animals. Sometimes solutions must be coordinated across several human service disciplines. The...

Many people who hoard understand the extent of their problem and are open to help. This book is not for them. Digging Out is for the concerned and frustrated friends and family members of people who do not fully accept the magnitude of their hoarding problem and refuse help from others. If you have a friend or loved one with a hoarding problem and are seeking a way to guide him or her to a healthier, safer way of life, this book

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