Kleptomania

Kleptomania (klep-toh-MAY-nee-uh) is a mental health condition in which a person repeatedly struggles to resist urges to steal things they do not need for personal use or for their money value. In the DSM-5-TR (the diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals), the typical pattern is a rising sense of tension just before the theft, followed by relief, pleasure or gratification during it. The stealing is not done out of anger or revenge, and it is not better explained by another condition.You might think, “These people are just seeking attention!” or “They are being inconsiderate!” In reality, many people with kleptomania feel deep guilt and shame afterwards, and the fear of being judged often stops them from asking for help – sometimes for years.

Kleptomania vs shoplifting

You might wonder whether professionals are making excuses for people who like shoplifting. They are not. Stealing still has legal consequences either way. But kleptomania and ordinary shoplifting are different, and kleptomania is considered uncommon.

Kleptomania

• Driven by an urge that is hard to resist, rather than by wanting the item
• Items are often not needed and may be hidden, thrown away, given away or secretly returned
• Tension builds before the theft; relief or pleasure comes during it
• Usually not planned in advance, and often followed by guilt or distress

Shoplifting

• Usually motivated by wanting the item itself, its value, peer pressure or a dare
• Often planned
• Happens among people from all backgrounds and income levels

What might be behind it?

The exact causes of kleptomania are not fully understood. Researchers think several factors may play a part:

1. Stress. Urges often seem to build up during periods of major stress or difficult emotions.

2. Serotonin. Serotonin is a brain chemical involved in regulating mood and behaviour. Some researchers believe differences in serotonin may make it harder for some people to control impulses.3. Dopamine. Dopamine is linked to the brain’s reward system. The relief or pleasure felt during a theft may reinforce the behaviour, making the urge more likely to return.

The urge–relief–guilt cycle

Many people with kleptomania describe a repeating cycle:

1. “I AM SO STRESSED!”
2. A strong urge to steal builds up, and tension rises.
3. They steal and feel a brief sense of relief.
4. They hide or get rid of the item.
5. “I feel so guilty for doing that!”
6. Guilt and shame add to the stress – and the cycle starts again.

The good news: this cycle can be interrupted. With the right support, many people learn to manage their urges and reduce or stop stealing.

What treatment can help?

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT helps a person notice triggers, understand the thoughts and feelings behind the urges, and practise new ways of coping when an urge appears.
• Counselling. Counselling offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk about shame, stress and other difficulties that may feed the urges.
• Medical or psychiatric review. A doctor or psychiatrist can check for related conditions such as depression, anxiety or substance use, and discuss whether medication might help.
• Stress management. Relaxation, mindfulness or activities such as yoga can support treatment by helping with stress, but they are not a substitute for professional care.

Only a qualified professional can diagnose kleptomania. If you recognise yourself or someone you care about in this article, reaching out is a brave first step. Our counselling team in Petaling Jaya offers confidential support in English, Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin.

This article is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional assessment, diagnosis or treatment.

Related Reading

• Gambling Addiction: Why does Gambling Make Me Excited?
• Fun Facts about Human Behaviour
• Services