Faculty Sponsor, if applicable
Joseph Ferrari
Project Abstract
It is said that children bring a special light to one’s life that is unlike any other. Similar to other special relationships, the one individuals create with minors in their lives and home can carry an impact. However, social stereotypes also feed us the belief that a large home would amount to a higher quality of life. The cultivation of one’s identity is a process that may involve both physical and psychological factors. Therefore, the work to understanding the psychology of clutter involves entering into an individual’s heart and head.
Clutter may play a role in shaping one’s personality and sense of self. While the presence and relationships built with minors within the household may aid in the creation of their identity. the square footage of the dwelling in which an individual calls home may also play a role in that development.
Data were collected by a non-profit called the Institute of Challenging Disorganization (ICD) from participants (n = 1384, M age = 54) who self-identified as organizationally challenged with mild to severe cases of clutter. Data collection was conducted using an online survey with links posted on the ICD’s website and sent to professional organizers and their clients. Using the Place Attachment Scale and Satisfaction with Life Scale, this study investigates the relationship between the presence of minors in the household and square footage of the dwelling and how it may affect the individual’s quality of life and their connectedness to their physical location.
Type of Research
Graduate Student - Independent Study
Preview
Presentation Year
May 2017