Keeping shopping bags and boxes doesn’t mean you’re a hoarder, psychology says

Many people save everyday items like plastic bags and boxes, often feeling sheepish.

However, psychologists distinguish this from clinical hoarding disorder, which stems from a deep, debilitating attachment to possessions.

While some save items out of a 'preparedness' mindset, true hoarders struggle to separate their identity from their belongings, experiencing distress when discarding them.

The research suggests the average saver has less attachment than assumed. ...