What is Kleptomania?

This video describes Kleptomania. Kleptomania is characterized by failing to resist impulses to steal. Individuals with Kleptomania often work alone, do not plan thefts carefully, and discard stolen items. They do not steal for monetary gain, revenge, or anger. Kleptomania is often comorbid with depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder.

[wandamixon]

After hearing that kleptomania is characterized by impulsivity followed by relief or gratification, I immediately compared the impulse control characteristic with obsessive-compulsive characteristics. You did mention the theory of a process addiction. It makes sense that kleptomania is comorbid with anxiety, bipolar, and substance use disorders in terms of restlessness and/or impulsivity. I have worked with juvenile shoplifters with whom impulsivity is often an increased occurrence. It is also interesting that some individuals store objects (perhaps minimal hoarding) whereas others discard or return objects.

[janicedixon]

I didn’t expect Kleptomania to be comorbid with Anxiety Disorder. I’d like to look more into this.

[virginiamurrey]

From what I have seen portrayed about Kleptomania in the media, it would make others think that it is simply theft. This video is a great resource to explain more in detail what it is about and the things that are associated with it.

[lesleyhubble]

I had a friend that took some earrings that meant a lot to me, I ignored it for a few years but I knew in my heart she took them because I nearly caught her. Once I acknowledged to myself it was her I won’t have her round my home again, I don’t talk to her now, nor will I ever again. I dislike her because they were precious to me, I don’t care that it’s a disorder, she should of given them back

[sarahholland]

Interesting. When I was 2 & up until age 6 I'd steal small household items of no value & hide them under the bed .(nail clippers, toothpaste etc ) I was a very anxious child with very strict, rigid parents. I built up quite a collection, but could never explain why I wanted them.

[tsbcmhc]

I found it extremely interesting that there is a higher rate of women (3:1) that have Kleptomania. I understand why there Kleptomania is often associated with OCD and why those with this disorder would like to hoard or "collect" the items they have stolen. Very interesting!

[veronicabetz]

I find it interesting that there is an increase in tension before an episode, and that the individuals may store the items or sneak the items back in the store.

[MisterTutor]

I'm totally stealing this video :)

[NewDimension]

Good night
Nice sharing, give new knowledge for me . Very educational .
Thanks you

[JoeDirt-elfr]

I had a kid I grew up with that had to steal things. If he wanted something he would steal it and deny he took it directly to your face. The more I think about it I knew a lot of kids that did this as I grew up.

[Jezeus]

Fuck. I’m a kleptomaniac. I never knew there was a word for my problem.

[rejaneoliveira]

Very interesting explanation on this topic. I feel that kleptomania has such a stigma in society, perhaps even more than other mental disorders.

Awesome review, Dr. Grande. Thank you.❤

[samantha]

My job fired me but before I left I stole much of the medical supplies just to feel better #ihaveaproblem

[shycat]

Ive been known to do this even though ive had counseling and been taking antianxiety medications for decades. It also can make one feel bad and guilty as i know its wrong, its a sin and returning items do not take it away that it was stolen. Just like an addict feels regret and sness.

[jackiesorrells]

Unfortunately this issue is to often downplayed in modern day culture. Addressing this behavior allows the patient to confront other potential co-morbid disorders.

[equisequis.]

I became a kleptomania back in 1996 when I lost my job, and my home and everything else. I wanted to fill that void in my life, by stealing and now its been a way of life for me and I can't stop. I have a job and all my money goes to bills and I have nothing left over to buy myself things. I would take things of no value and hoard it. Its something I have trouble controlling. I want to stop but I can't. Its like a smoker trying to quit cigarettes. Thank goodness that its just petty stuff, instead of more valuable stuff. I tell my mind that its ok. I'm only borrowing these things and i'm going to return it later. Its something i'm going to have to help myself get over. I never realize i was a klepto until today. I thought I was just a thief. Maybe God can help me over come it.

[voiceforjusticeandproporti]

I have friend that may have this disorder. I'm in another country from her now so i can't address this directly face to face. Any ideas how I should proceed?

[johnharrisjr]

It was interesting that the video said Kleptomaniacs don't steal for monetary gain. How does kleptomania relate to substance use disorder? Some people with substance use disorder steal for monetary gain or drugs

[stevemorse]

I don’t understand my behavior: I am scrupulously honest always returning wallets found and being very generous either those I know but I have a weird obsessive compulsive drive to steal paper napkins in cafeterias. They have no or little monetary value and I tend to not use them myself.

[MeleenGames]

I was recently diagnosed with OCD, kliptomania and BPD