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Hoarding: Buried Alive (TLC)

common sense media says

Another docu about obsessive behavior that's not for kids.

parents & educators say
See all 3 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this show is not intended for kids. The hoarding shown in the reality program gets pretty ugly and while the actual filth (with attendant vermin) gets played down, the scenes of clutter might be confusing to younger viewers. The families of the hoarders speak frankly about the effects of the disorder on them, so it's all terribly sad. Occasional language, like "ass" is audible.

Positive messages: The message of the show is that people with hoarding compulsions need help and that by getting this help, they and their families can live happier lives. Because successful treatment happens at a much slower pace than a TV production schedule, we don't know the full outcome of each story, but there are clear signs of improvement at the end of the show.
Positive role models: The hoarders on the program are looking for help, even if it takes a TV show to do it. They often resist the treatment, but they do as much as they can to fix their problems.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Mild, occasional language, including "ass."
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Hoarding: Buried Alive

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

  • Families can talk about whether showing people dealing with this problem is helpful. Parents can ask their children if shows like these encourage people with this illness to seek help or is it more voyeuristic?

  • How real is this show? Parents can ask if their kids think they are getting the whole story and what might be missing?

  • Parents can ask their children why they think people with this illness want to show it on television? Does that exploit them?

What's the story?

What's the story?

Each episode looks at two persons suffering from the form of obsessive compulsive disorder that is hoarding.The show explores the hoarders' histories and interviews their families while also showing examples of their hoarding -- floor to ceiling clutter throughout an entire house, in one case. A therapist and professional organizer are brought in to help the sufferers and eventually, viewers see some progress being made, though what happens after the show ends is anybody's guess.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

If this were the only show on looking at this condition, it might be okay. The problem is, there are too many others out there like it. The show feels like we've been here, done that and doesn't offer any new insight into the problem.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: TLC
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: TLC
This review was written by Anne Louise Bannon
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

fezzihair100
kid, 9 years old
10
 
its good
This is a great show, I like it!
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was this review useful?
helped me decide (5) | had useful details (5) | read my mind (4)
lalagirl1234
kid, 13 years old
8
 
not bad but boring and stupid
this show is sad. i completely understand that the people cant help and have their reasons. but i dont think its a postive show or a positive messgae and its wicked boring.
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was this review useful?
helped me decide (5) | had useful details (3) | read my mind (5)
aamd13
kid, 11 years old
10
 
i put age 10, but im not the one in charge of what age other people are at when they watch it
i love this show its awesome tho i havent seen a full episode i still think when i do itll be cool xD (RATE THIS A THUMBS UP (I MEAN GIVE IT A HELPED ME DECIDE) heres why i think u will rate thumbs up: it is about people who are obsessed with stuff and have so much of just about everything and dont want people ruining their items (example: dont touch it dont think of it dont dream about it dont breathe on it). they want to keep every item they have. thats why the show has the words BURIED ALIVE. and the funny part is,THEIR WHOLE FAMILY HAS TO LIVE WITH IT WITHOUT SAYING ANYTHING ABOUT IT! awesome show. (compliment plz) thx. bye. P.S. nothing's really an issue except for mild occasional language.
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was this review useful?
helped me decide (4) | had useful details (4) | read my mind (2)

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