Although shoplifting is common, true kleptomania is quite rare (0.3 to 0.6 percent of the general population). It has been estimated that between 4 and 24 percent of shoplifters have kleptomania. It is difficult to know exactly how many people have this disorder because it involves secrecy and deception.
What causes a person to be a kleptomaniac?
Kleptomania is an irresistible urge to steal. It is believed to be caused by genetics, neurotransmitter abnormalities and the presence of other psychiatric conditions. The problem may be linked to a brain chemical known as serotonin, which regulates the moods and emotions of an individual.
Do kleptomaniacs remember stealing?
People with kleptomania feel strong urges to steal, with anxiety, tension, and arousal leading up to the theft and feeling pleasure and relief during the theft. Many kleptomaniacs also feel guilty or remorseful after the act of stealing is over, but are later unable to resist the urge.
What percent of the population has kleptomania?
The prevalence of kleptomania in the general population is approximated at 0.6 percent. In those arrested for shoplifting, the prevalence of kleptomania is 3.8 to 24 percent. The female to male ratio is estimated at 3:1.
Can a kleptomania be cured?
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.
Are Kleptomaniacs aware?
Some kleptomaniacs may not even be consciously aware that they have committed the theft until later. Occasionally the kleptomaniac may hoard the stolen objects or surreptitiously return them.
At what age can kleptomania be diagnosed?
However, kleptomania’s age of onset can vary widely. Symptoms have been reported in children as young as 5 years old, while some people say they didn’t notice symptoms until the age of 55. Kleptomania Among Children and Adolescents.
What are the signs of kleptomania?
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.
Is kleptomania a form of OCD?
Kleptomania is frequently thought of as being a part of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), since the irresistible and uncontrollable actions are similar to the frequently excessive, unnecessary, and unwanted rituals of OCD.
