The Psychology of Kleptomania

Categorically, the theft is not because of anger, vengeance nor Mental Illness.

There is not a Psychological statement that relates to Greed, despite many studies. “Accumulating Wealth” can be seen as an OCD. Disregarding the rights of Others whilst doing so can be seen as an Antisocial Personality Disorder, but it is best not to Self-diagnose Others and leave that to a Professional.

Occasionally the perpetrator may hoard the objects, or surreptitiously return them. Some People hoard objects because They are “Stimulation Seekers”, this Person may enjoy loud music, flashing lights, junk food, good times and talking loudly in public. This Person’s House may be cluttered and loudly decorated to achieve maximum stimulation at all times. To deal with putting off a Stimulation Seeker, manipulate the environment with sound and lights whilst things are unguarded.

Individuals with Kleptomania experience the impulse to steal as repulsive and against Their values. They are aware it is senseless and wrong. The Person frequently fears being caught and often feels guilty or depressed about the behaviour. The disorder may cause legal, family, career and personal difficulties. As We all know, being caught would be publicly embarrassing and usually these People are wealthy, They pick on People or Organisations with less resources than Them.

Being caught could mean Court-time and/or Gaol-time. This can be inconvenient and embarrassing. People with Famous Names still act out as Kleptomaniacs and run the risk. Risk-taking is part of the game, referring to any pattern of social interaction with well defined rules. They are looking for a response from the Person They offend against, as stimulus. The response They seek determines the attempt at manipulation of the Other Person and what They steal from Them. This delves into Dark Psychology which is another topic.

Kleptomania is a rare condition and is more common in females. No cure exists, but treatment with talk therapy, behavioural therapy, systematic desensitisation and medication such as antidepressants may help end the cycle of compulsive stealing.