Question

What is a kleptomaniac?

Answer 1

Kleptomania is a type of impulse control disorder — a disorder that's characterized by problems with emotional or behavioral self-control. If you have an impulse control disorder, you have difficulty resisting the temptation or drive to perform an act that's excessive or harmful to you or someone else.

Many people with kleptomania live lives of secret shame because they're afraid to seek mental health treatment. Although there's no cure for kleptomania, treatment with medication or talk therapy (psychotherapy) may help to end the cycle of compulsive stealing.

Symptoms

Kleptomania symptoms may include:

Inability to resist powerful urges to steal items that you don't need

Feeling increased tension, anxiety or arousal leading up to the theft

Feeling pleasure, relief or gratification while stealing

Feeling terrible guilt, remorse, self-loathing, shame or fear of arrest after the theft

Return of the urges and a repetition of the kleptomania cycle

Answer 2

An impulse control disorder that results in an irresistible urge to steal.

The cause of kleptomania remains unknown but risk factors include a family history of kleptomania or other impulse control disorders. It occurs more often in women.

Kleptomania is a serious disorder that causes an irresistible urge to steal items that aren't required and are usually of little value.

Consequences can include job loss, financial penalties and trouble with the police.

No cure exists, but treatment with talk therapy and medication such as antidepressants may help end the cycle of compulsive stealing.