Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Studies the role of individual ownership of material possessions. This book proposes that the meaning of material possessions are socially constituted and shared, and seen as symbols of identity which communicate personal qualities and social position.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Dittmar looks at the social psychological meaning and functions of possessions and property from both a theoretical and research analysis perspective, supplementing the usual psychological and sociological data base with consumer research. Starting with an examination of a possible biological basis for an acquisition instinct, she then discusses an individual-centered approach that looks at both instrumental and symbolic extension of self as explanatory concepts. The remainder of the book focuses on the social constructionist approach, using this as the vehicle for explaining the findings on socially constituted meanings relative to gender roles and socioeconomic differences. Finally, Dittmar concludes with a discussion of the special meaning of possessions in contemporary Western society. A well-written, thorough book that ably documents the various viewpoints along with the supporting data. Extensive bibliography with 37 pages of references. Recommended for advanced undergraduate and graduate libraries. P. Barker; Schenectady County Community College