The urge to steal- kleptomania: Part 1

Kleptomania is the overwhelming urge to steal items that one really does not need or have little value. Kleptomania is a serious social problem as it can create havoc in a person’s life if it is not treated early. The impulse to steal is very strong and people have no control over it. Unfortunately, because of the taboo associated with the diagnosis of “thief” most people with this disorder remain silent and never seek therapy. Most people only seek treatment when they are caught and in legal difficulties. 

The symptoms of kleptomania may include1) an irresistible urge to steal items not needed 2) a heightened stress just prior to the steeling 3) feeling delight to fulfillment while stealing and 4) feeling intense guilt or disgrace after the theft.

What must be understood is that unlike the typical shoplifter, kleptomaniacs do not steal for personal gain nor do they commit the theft as a means of revenge. The stealing is done because of the intense urge that is beyond control. Until they steal, these individuals feel anxious, tensed, and extremely hypersensitive. To resolve these feelings they steal.

Kleptomania occurs spontaneously and is rarely a planned event. Sometimes a simple argument may trigger an episode of kleptomania. Kleptomaniacs may steal from public places, from friends and family or from work. Men tend to steal “hard” items whereas many women steal jewelry, undergarments or private letters. In many cases, the same items are repeatedly stolen and there may be an ingredient of fetishism.