Mental Health A-Z: Expert Explains What Is Kleptomania And How Can It Be Treated

Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are widely recognised now and are becoming a commonly discussed topic. However, some examples of human behaviour haven't been considered as mental disorders or their brain-mind mechanisms haven't yet been understood. One such example is kleptomania or shoplifting. This week in our ‘Mental Health A-Z’ series, Dr Nimesh Desai, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, and Former Director, IHBAS, Delhi, explains kleptomania, its causes, and the treatment measures.

What Is Kleptomania?

“Kleptomania or shoplifting, is when a person picks up random things from a shop/store without paying any money. One should not confuse kleptomania with general mania (psychiatric condition)”, informed Dr Desai.

According to data published in the Encyclopedia of Behavioral Neuroscience, kleptomania usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood. Two-thirds of patients with the condition are female, with males tending to start at an earlier age.

What Is Impulse Control Disorder?

“We all have faced some negative impulses, but have managed to control them. However, some people cannot control such feelings due to their brain mechanisms and are termed having Impulse Control Disorder (ICD). Kleptomania is an example of this disorder”, highlighted Dr Desai.

According to Frontiers in Psychiatry, ICD is defined by excessive, dangerous, or self-destructive desires and behaviours that significantly affect social and vocational functioning, as well as create financial and legal challenges. 

“In addition, we do see patients who experience anger outbursts and physical outbursts at a young age. This is also categorised as an impulse disorder”, added Dr Desai.

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Causes Of Kleptomania

Dr Desai highlighted, “Till date, there are no specific reasons or factors that can justify why this condition occurs. Shoplifting or kleptomania is not under anyone's control, they don't do it knowingly. Thus, it can be considered as a mental disorder.”

Treatment Of Kleptomania

“We haven't understood the underlying mechanism of this condition. However, one can get treated with medicine and behavioural training.  Also, there are a few medicines that help a person control their impulses”, informed Dr Desai.

Detailed behavioural analysis also sheds light on how to modify a few behaviour patterns of that person.

Also Read: Mental Health A-Z: Expert Explains Insomnia, Its Causes, Diagnosis, And Treatment

Behavioural Tips For Society Regarding Kleptomania

Dr Desai said, “As the medical condition is not completely understood, there should be no criminal action against them.” He listed behavioural tips for society in dealing with people with kleptomania as follows:

• It is important to sympathise with the person and not look down on them with shame.
• You should help the person, his family, and friends to seek medical aid.

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare provider and is for informational purposes only. We advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any mental health issues.]