What is a key motive for a cottage collector in their activities?

The key motive for a cottage collector is to gain social validation and share experiences. This reflects a deeper emotional or psychological drive behind their collecting activities. Collectors often engage in communities or networks where they can showcase their collections, discuss specific items, and share their experiences. This community aspect fosters connections with others who have similar interests, creating a sense of belonging and validation.

While maintaining a secret collection may be appealing to some collectors, it generally does not fulfill the social interaction aspect that drives a cottage collector's motivations. Similarly, earning profit from selling items is more characteristic of serious investors or dealers rather than casual collectors, who tend to prioritize personal enjoyment over financial gain. Lastly, avoiding criminal behavior is not a primary motive for collecting; it is more of an expectation or consideration that all collectors should adhere to, rather than a driving force behind their passion for collecting.