|
|
|
|
|
Kleptomania
|
|
|
Kleptomania is recognized as a very rare mental disorder that is classified among the impulse disorders / obsessive compulsive disorders. This disease may be associated to mood disorders such as depression. It involves a failure to resist the impulse to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary value. There are an estimated 23 million shoplifters in America today (approximately 1 out of 11) and with retailers losing $25 million a day, it is a major problem. There is no profile of a typical shoplifter... a shoplifter can be anyone. Kleptomania is easily distinguishable from shoplifting (and Addictive Compulsive Theft), as shown in the chart below: Kleptomania Thefts Addictive Compulsive Thefts Constant failure to resist the impulse to steal objects that are not needed for personal use or monetary gain. Constant failure to resist obsessive, addictive, or compulsive thoughts and behaviors. Objects that are stolen are used even if not needed. Increasing amount of tension immediately before committing the theft. Present tension well before committing the theft. Pleasure or relief after committing the theft. Often not fully aware committing the theft so there is lilt or no guilt afterwards. Pleasure or relief at the time of the theft and just after. More of a conscious act so guilt and shame most likely will be felt after. The theft is not committed to express anger. The theft is a way to act out anger, trying to make life right again. Not due to Conduct Disorder or Antisocial Personality Disorder. Most are good, caring, law abiding citizens. The same. People suffering from Kleptomania have the recurrent impulse to steal objects that are not needed for personal use or for their monetary value. They do not steal because they need the object stolen in fact they will sometimes secretly replace the object after stealing it. Kleptomaniacs steal strictly for the thrill of stealing, and do not want to get caught. The act of stealing is not committed to express anger or revenge, and it is not the result of a delusion or a hallucination.
|
|
|
|
Still Can't Find What Your Looking For? Then Try a Essay Search!
|
