Sometimes we have witnessed people, either in television or real life, where people are stealing things. The things the person steals are not of value or sometimes even of use, but yet they steal those things. This particular condition is known as kleptomania.
Definition
Kleptomaniacs derive thrill and pleasure out of stealing these things. The objects they steal are of little or no value at all. Also, after they have stolen the objects they either discard it, hoard it or even give it away. Kleptomania involves a lot of tension before stealing and a certain pleasure and gratification after they have stolen the object.
Also, kleptomaniacs do not steal the objects after a well-planned heist. It is in the moment they feel they want to steal and hence, they answer to their impulses. A person who is suffering from this condition doesn’t steal because of hallucination or personality disorder or conduct behaviour. They steal because they work according to their impulse. But, after they have stolen the object, they feel an insufferable amount of guilt and even depression.
Symptoms:
As mentioned earlier, people who are suffering from kleptomania are working according to their impulse. The objects they steal are not planned or even of monitory value. Kleptomania is different from shoplifting, as shoplifting involves a planned procedure. Shoplifters pick up objects because of their financial situation. But, Kleptomaniacs work according to their impulse. Thus, below are the symptoms of kleptomania:
Impulses:
They are unable to control their impulses constantly. Thus, making them steal every time their impulse tells them.
Tension:
Before they are about to steal anything, their tension level increases. Hence, acting according to their impulse to control their tension.
Feelings During:
At the time of the theft, they start feeling a certain kind of gratification and relief. Thus, helping them to control their tension.
No relation to Psychosis:
Kleptomaniacs do not have symptoms of psychosis. That is hallucinations or expressions of revenge or anger or even antisocial personality. As mentioned, it is an impulse.
Kleptomania is not a very common mental health issue, but it is still prevalent. It can occur at any age, to children, adolescents or even late adulthood. Also, the reasons for kleptomania can be many, and most of the time it occurs with other mental health issues like depression, bipolar or OCD.
But, it is curable with psychotherapy and medication. Hence, if you or someone you know is suffering from this disorder, then please visit a mental health professional immediately.
