Date of Award
Winter 3-22-2019
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Joseph R. Ferrari, Ph.D.
Second Advisor
Theresa Luhrs, Ph.D.
Abstract
The current study explored factors that may contribute to emerging adult’s satisfaction in life, in terms of clutter (an overabundance of possessions), and extent of self-identity developed within personal possessions. The current study investigated participant’s tendencies and attitude towards cluttering behavior’s impact on their overall life satisfaction (H1). Also investigated was overall life satisfaction contingent on participant’s reported extent of their self-identity manifested within their personal possessions, or how much they incorporated their self-identity within object belongings (H2). Cluttering behavior is similar to a key criteria of hoarding disorder (inability to part with personal possession, regardless of value). Previous research suggests that people diagnosed with hoarding disorder oftentimes experience negative life outcomes, in addition to low life satisfaction because of overabundance of possessions. The current study investigated life satisfaction in relation to possession mismanagement of 44 women, 15 men, and one person identifying as transgender, who are considered emerging adults (age range = 18 to 29 years old). A regression model, and correlation model were used to assess hypotheses. Results found that no significant relationship present for either H1 or H2. However in a proposed research question, it was found that a difference in reported satisfaction with life was present when comparing the youngest and oldest participants.
Recommended Citation
Girts, Juline A., "Clutter and Self-Extension Tendencies: Predictors of Life Satisfaction among Emerging Adults" (2019). College of Science and Health Theses and Dissertations. 307.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/csh_etd/307
SLP Collection
no