It’s not uncommon for this condition to be comorbid with other mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, symptoms of which are also common triggers for engaging in stealing behavior in those with kleptomania. The majority of those diagnosed with kleptomania are women, and the behavior often first manifests in the teenage years. It’s suspected that it may be related to a chemical imbalance in the brain and/or genetic factors. Kleptomania is a rare disorder and its causes are not fully understood. An individual may also choose to give the items away, donate them, or secretly attempt to return them to where they were stolen from in an attempt to lessen the guilt they may feel. Afterward, it’s not uncommon to simply stash the items away rather than using them. Note that the impulse to steal is usually spontaneous in someone with kleptomania, meaning that the individual typically doesn’t plan ahead for it or have help in carrying it out. This urge to steal can occur at any time and may cause them to take things from public places or even from friends and family-which can lead to further rejection and isolation. Guilt, shame, embarrassment, remorse, or fear of consequences after thatĮventually, the powerful urge to steal againĪgain, an individual with kleptomania typically doesn’t steal because they can’t afford to buy the items instead, the behavior happens because of a strong, nearly irresistible impulse. Relief or pleasure during or immediately after the theft The powerful urge to steal an item that’s not neededĪ strong sense of anxiety and tension leading up to the theft The manifestation of kleptomania often takes the form of a cycle of feelings and urges, as follows: All of these potential consequences could also take a toll on the person’s mental health.
Family and friends may choose not to associate with the individual because of their behavior, and/or the individual could choose to self-isolate due to shame around their condition. The behavior associated with this disorder can also negatively impact a person’s relationships. In more extreme cases, they could receive a fine or even jail time. If caught, an individual could be banned from a store or other establishment and experience a sense of potentially public embarrassment. Potential Consequences For Someone With KleptomaniaĪcting on kleptomaniac impulses can result in various consequences, including legal repercussions. As a result, if the impulse isn't curbed, controlled, or otherwise managed, serious consequences could result. It can cause a great deal of harm to the individual who has it, as well as to their friends, family, and even society at large. Although kleptomania is extremely rare, it's a serious disorder. However, once these feelings dissipate, emotions like embarrassment, shame, remorse, and guilt may replace them. Once a person with kleptomania steals, they often feel a release of pleasure, relief, or other positive emotions. It’s different from those without this mental health disorder who may steal because of need, boredom, or for a thrill.
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