Definition

Kleptomania is an overwhelming urge to steal. The things stolen are not needed for personal use or value. This is a rare condition.

Causes

The cause is unknown. Chemical imbalances in the brain may play a role.

Frontal Lobe

Psychological disorders are sometimes the result of chemical imbalances in the brain. The frontal lobe of the brain is thought to provide impulse control.

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Risk Factors

Kleptomania appears to be more common in females than in males.

This condition often occurs with other mental health problems. These include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Substance abuse, such as alcohol use disorder and drug abuse
• Eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia
• Other impulse control problems

Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Having a family member with:
  • Kleptomania
  • Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder
  • Alcohol or drug abuse
• Having a brain injury

Symptoms

Kleptomania differs from regular theft. The person does not steal on purpose. Symptoms are:

• Repeated theft of things that are not of use
• Relief or pleasure when stealing
• Guilt or remorse after stealing
• Theft is not due to anger or personal gain
• Thefts are not explained by other disorders

Diagnosis

A mental health doctor will ask about your symptoms. Kleptomania is diagnosed when:

• A person has all the symptoms
• There is no better reason for repeated thefts
• Shoplifting or regular theft is ruled out

Treatment

The goal is to stop the behavior. Underlying problems may also need treatment. Options may be:

• Counseling, such as:
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Behavior modification
  • Family therapy
  • Stress relief, such as yoga, or tai chi
• Medicines, such as:
  • Antidepressants and mood stabilizers
  • Medicines to treat drug addiction
  • Medicines to treat seizure disorders

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent kleptomania.