Hoarding: Buried Alive
Kids say
Based on 4 reviews
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
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.
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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?
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.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
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?
TV Details
- Premiere date: March 14, 2010
- Network: TLC
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
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