Quck answer

Kleptomania is a mental disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary gain. People with kleptomania often experience tension and anxiety before stealing, followed by relief or gratification after the act. The stolen items are typically of little value and are often discarded or given away. Kleptomania is different from ordinary theft, as individuals with this disorder do not steal for personal gain or because they need the items. Treatment for kleptomania usually involves therapy and medication to address the underlying causes and manage the impulses.

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Imagine this: You’re strolling through your favorite store. You browse through the video games, then turn the corner. There they are. At the end of the aisle. Shining under the bright fluorescent light. The headphones your parents won’t buy for you.

You understand that they are expensive, but you have a strong desire for these headphones. Looking around, you realize that you are alone in the aisle. No one is watching. No one would notice if you took the headphones. But that would be stealing! You know it’s morally wrong. What will you do?

Most people understand that stealing is not acceptable. No matter how much you desire something, it is unfair to take it without paying. Moreover, there are legal consequences for stealing. For all these reasons, most people refrain from stealing, even when they really, really want something. However, sometimes, individuals are unable to control their urge to steal.

If a person is unable to stop themselves from stealing, they may have kleptomania. This is a psychological disorder where individuals cannot resist the impulse to steal. Usually, people with this condition feel guilty after taking something that doesn’t belong to them. Their intention is not to steal – they simply cannot control their actions.

Many people assume that those with kleptomania steal valuable items. After all, shiny diamonds or brand new TVs may seem like the most tempting objects. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Most often, individuals with kleptomania take small items of little value. In many cases, they could have easily afforded to purchase the stolen item. Other times, they take small items from others who may not immediately notice their absence.

So why do they steal at all? Many find it difficult to comprehend this condition. However, it’s important to remember that, for people with kleptomania, it’s not about wanting to steal. It’s about being unable to resist the impulse to take things.

How common is kleptomania? It is very rare, affecting only about 0.3 to 0.6 percent of the population. It is more prevalent among women than men. The exact cause of kleptomania is unclear. However, experts have observed that it often coexists with other impulse control disorders, such as substance abuse.

Nevertheless, treatment can assist individuals with kleptomania in managing their urges. This typically involves therapy and medication. However, many individuals with kleptomania find it challenging to seek treatment. They often feel too guilty about their actions to discuss them openly. Others fear legal consequences if they admit to their problem.

Of course, not everyone who steals has kleptomania. Some people plan and execute thefts of valuable items. They likely do not have this disorder. However, if a person cannot resist the urge to steal, kleptomania may be the underlying issue.

Have you ever felt tempted to take something that doesn’t belong to you? Most people have experienced this at some point in their lives. It’s important to remember that kleptomania is not a moral failing – it is a psychiatric condition that can be treated. If you know someone exhibiting symptoms of this disorder, encourage them to speak with a trusted adult.

Try It Out

Find an adult friend or family member who can assist you in trying out the activities below!

Impulse Control Disorders

Learn more about impulse control disorders and create an informational poster to explain the important facts to others. Identify the five different impulse control disorders, their symptoms, and whether any of them have a definite cause.

Reflecting on Temptations

Recall a situation where you were tempted to do something wrong. Describe how you made your decision and whether you would make the same choice if you had the chance to do it again. Explain your reasoning in a paragraph.

Seeking Mental Health Help

Kleptomania is just one example of a psychiatric disorder that can be treated by medical professionals. Emphasize the importance of taking care of mental health and create a list, with the assistance of a friend or family member, of local resources available for individuals seeking mental health assistance in your community.

Wonder Sources

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225132/ (accessed 14 Feb. 2020)
• https://www.healthline.com/health/stealing#getting-help (accessed 14 Feb. 2020)
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9878-kleptomania (accessed 14 Feb. 2020)
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/kleptomania (accessed 14 Feb. 2020)

FAQ

1. What is kleptomania?

Kleptomania is a mental disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to steal things that have little or no personal value. It is considered an impulse control disorder and is often associated with feelings of tension or anxiety before committing the theft, followed by relief or gratification afterwards. The stolen items are usually not needed by the individual and are often discarded, given away, or hidden.

2. What causes kleptomania?

The exact cause of kleptomania is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Some research suggests that abnormalities in certain areas of the brain, such as the frontal cortex and limbic system, may play a role in the development of this disorder. Additionally, individuals with a family history of kleptomania or other impulse control disorders may be at a higher risk.

3. How is kleptomania diagnosed?

Kleptomania is diagnosed based on a thorough psychological evaluation by a mental health professional. The diagnostic criteria include recurrent episodes of stealing unrelated to personal need or monetary value, a sense of tension or arousal before committing the theft, and a sense of relief or pleasure during or after the act. The behavior must also not be better explained by another mental disorder or a direct result of substance abuse.

4. Is kleptomania treatable?

Yes, kleptomania can be treated, although there is no specific medication approved for its treatment. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has been found to be effective in helping individuals manage their impulses and develop healthier coping strategies. Support groups and self-help techniques can also be beneficial. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to address any underlying mood disorders or co-occurring conditions.

5. Can someone with kleptomania control their stealing behavior?

While individuals with kleptomania may have difficulty controlling their stealing behavior, it is important to note that they are not intentionally engaging in criminal behavior. The urge to steal is often overwhelming and driven by an impulse they cannot resist. However, with appropriate treatment and support, individuals with kleptomania can learn to manage their impulses and reduce the frequency of their stealing episodes.