Kleptomania
Definition:
Kleptomania is the recurrent inability to resist urges to steal items that you generally don’t really need and that usually have little value. [1]
There aren’t any perfect synonyms for "kleptomania" that capture the full clinical meaning. Here’s why:
- General terms for stealing: Words like "thief" or "shoplifter" don’t consider the uncontrollable urges and lack of personal gain in kleptomania.
- Informal terms: "Klepto" is a casual term for someone with kleptomania, but lacks the precision of the full diagnosis.
However, depending on the context, you might consider:
- Compulsive Stealing: This conveys the repetitive, uncontrollable nature, but isn’t a formal diagnosis.
Focus on specific aspects:
- Impulse-control disorder: Highlights the broader category kleptomania falls under.
- Pathological Stealing: Emphasizes the abnormal and potentially harmful nature of the stealing behavior.
Remember:
- When referring to the diagnosed condition, "kleptomania" remains the most accurate term.
Overview Of Kleptomania
Epidemiology
Causes
Types
Risk Factors
Pathogenesis
Pathophysiology
Clinical Features
Sign & Symptoms
Clinical Examination
Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis
Complications
Investigations
Treatment
Prevention
Homeopathic Treatment
Diet & Regimen
Do’s and Don'ts
Terminology
References
Also Search As
Overview Of Kleptomania
Overview Of Kleptomania
It is a rare but serious mental health disorder that can cause much emotional pain to you and your loved ones if not treated.
It is a type of impulse control disorder — a disorder that’s characterize by problems with emotional or behavioral self-control.
If you have an impulse control disorder, you have difficulty resisting the temptation or drive to perform an act that’s excessive or harmful to you or someone else.
Many people with this live lives of secret shame because they’re afraid to seek mental health treatment.
Although there’s no cure, treatment with medication or talk therapy(psychotherapy) may help to end the cycle of compulsive stealing. [1]
People with this condition commonly feel depressed or guilty about the thefts after they occur.
About 0.3 to 0.6 percent of people are estimate to experience this condition, and it is more common among females than males, according to the DSM-5. [2]
Epidemiology
Epidemiology
There is limited epidemiological data specific to India. However, a study titled "Kleptomania-the Compulsion to Steal" published in 2017 on ResearchGate mentions that it is a female-dominant disorder and its exact causes remain unknown. The study suggests that potential causes may be related to women’s psychic conditions during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause.
Please note that this study does not provide specific prevalence rates or statistical data for pathological stealing in India, and further research is needed to understand the full scope of this disorder in the Indian population.
Reference:
- (PDF) Kleptomania-the Compulsion to Steal – ResearchGate. (2017).
Causes
Causes
The cause is unknown, although it may have a genetic component and may be transmitted among first-degree relatives.
Problem in Neurotransmitters:
- This condition appears to involve the neurotransmitter pathways in the brain associated with the serotonin, dopamine, also opioid systems, according to the DSM-5. [2]
- Moreover, Serotonin helps regulate moods and emotions. Low levels of serotonin are common in people prone to impulsive behaviors.
- Lastly, Dopamine causes pleasurable feelings, also some people seek this rewarding feeling again and again. [1]
The brain’s opioid system:
- Urges are regulated by the brain’s opioid system. Additionally, An imbalance in this system could make it harder to resist urges. [1]
Mental illness:
- People with kleptomania often have another mental illness, such as confusing disorder, anxiety disorder, an eating disorder, substance use disorder or a personality disorder, depression.
Types
Types
There are no distinct "types" in the traditional sense, as it is classified as a single disorder. However, kleptomania can present with varying levels of severity and can co-occur with other mental health conditions, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, or substance use disorders. These co-occurring conditions can influence the presentation and course of pathological stealing , leading to differences in individual experiences.
This manual Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) provides the most up-to-date diagnostic criteria for kleptomania and discusses associated features, prevalence, development, and course. It also addresses the differential diagnosis and other disorders that may present with similar symptoms.
Please note that the DSM-5-TR does not explicitly categorize kleptomania into distinct types, but it does offer a nuanced understanding of the disorder’s complexity and variability.[4]
Risk Factors
Risk factors
While the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors have been identified that may increase an individual’s susceptibility to developing the disorder. These include:
Family History:
Having a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with kleptomania or other impulse control disorders may increase the risk.
Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions:
Kleptomania often co-occurs with other mental health disorders, such as mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, or substance use disorders. The presence of these conditions may increase the likelihood of developing kleptomania.
Neurobiological Factors:
Imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation and reward processing, may contribute to the development .
Stressful Life Events:
Experiencing significant stress or trauma may trigger or exacerbate this condition in susceptible individuals.
The DSM-5-TR provides a comprehensive overview including its diagnostic criteria, associated features, risk factors, and differential diagnosis. It also discusses the prevalence, development, and course of the disorder, as well as treatment options.[4]
Pathogenesis
Pathogenesis
The exact pathogenesis is not fully understood, but research suggests a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors contribute to its development.
Biological Factors:
- Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Dysregulation of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in reward and impulse control, may play a role.
- Brain Structure and Function: Studies have shown structural and functional abnormalities in brain regions associated with impulse control and decision-making in individuals with this condition.
Psychological Factors:
- Emotional Regulation Difficulties: It may be a maladaptive way to cope with negative emotions or stress.
- Cognitive Distortions: Individuals may have distorted thoughts about stealing, such as believing it is uncontrollable or a way to relieve tension.
Environmental Factors:
- Stressful Life Events: Trauma or significant stress can trigger or worsen symptoms.
- Family History: Having a family history of kleptomania or other impulse control disorders may increase the risk.
This comprehensive textbook Kaplan & Sadock’s Comprehensive Textbook of PsychiatryKaplan & Sadock’s Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry provides a detailed discussion including its etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment options. It delves into the neurobiological, psychological, and environmental factors that contribute to the development of the disorder, providing a holistic understanding of its pathogenesis.[5]
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of kleptomania, the underlying biological and psychological mechanisms, is not fully understood, but several factors are thought to contribute:
Neurotransmitter Imbalance:
Dysregulation of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in reward processing and impulse control, may play a role. Increased dopamine activity during stealing could reinforce the behavior, while low serotonin levels might contribute to impulsivity.
Brain Structure and Function:
Neuroimaging studies have found differences in brain regions involved in decision-making, impulse control, and reward processing in individuals with kleptomania compared to healthy controls. These differences may contribute to the compulsive urge to steal.
Genetic Predisposition:
Pathological stealing often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component. However, specific genes have not been identified, and it’s likely a complex interaction of multiple genes and environmental factors.
Psychological Factors:
Emotional distress, stress, and trauma can trigger or worsen symptoms. Stealing may serve as a maladaptive coping mechanism to relieve negative emotions or gain a sense of control.
This book Impulse Control Disorders provides a comprehensive overview of impulse control disorders, including kleptomania. It discusses the clinical features, neurobiology, genetics, and treatment options for these disorders, offering a deeper understanding of their pathophysiology.[6]
Clinical Features
Clinical Features
The core clinical feature is the recurrent failure to resist impulses to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary value. Other common features include:
Increasing Tension Before Stealing:
Individuals with kleptomania often experience a rising sense of tension, anxiety, or arousal before engaging in theft.
Pleasure or Relief During Stealing:
The act of stealing typically brings a sense of pleasure, gratification, or relief from the built-up tension.
Guilt or Remorse After Stealing:
Following the theft, individuals often experience intense guilt, shame, self-loathing, or fear of getting caught.
No Premeditation or Collaboration:
Kleptomania episodes are usually spontaneous and unplanned, occurring without the help or encouragement of others.
Not Motivated by Anger or Vengeance:
Stealing in kleptomania is not driven by anger, revenge, or a desire to express defiance.
Not Related to Delusions or Hallucinations:
Kleptomania is not associated with hallucinations or delusions, distinguishing it from other disorders like schizophrenia.
The DSM-5-TR provides the official diagnostic criteria for kleptomania and describes its typical clinical features. It also differentiates kleptomania from other disorders with similar symptoms, such as ordinary theft, shoplifting, or mania.[4]
Sign & Symptoms
Sign & Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Inability to resist powerful urges to steal items that you don’t need
- Feeling increased tension, anxiety or arousal just before theft
- Feel pleasure, relief or gratification while stealing
- Feeling terrible guilt, remorse, self-loathing, shame or fear of arrest after the theft
- Return of the urges and a repetition of the kleptomania cycle
Features:
People with kleptomania typically exhibit these features or characteristics:
- Unlike typical shoplifters, people with kleptomania don’t compulsively steal for personal gain, on a dare, for revenge or out of rebellion. They steal simply because the urge is so powerful that they can’t resist it.
- Episodes of kleptomania generally occur spontaneously, usually without planning and without help or collaboration from another person.
- Most people with kleptomania steal from public places, such as stores and supermarkets. Some may steal from friends or acquaintances, such as at a party.
- Often, the stolen items have no value to the person with kleptomania, and the person can afford to buy them.
- The stolen items are usually stash away, never to be used. Items may also be donated, given away to family or friends, or even secretly return to the place from which they were stolen.
- Urges to steal may come and go or may occur with greater or lesser intensity over the course of time. [1]
Clinical Examination
Clinical Examination
There is no specific physical examination for kleptomania, as it is a mental health disorder. However, a clinical assessment is crucial for diagnosis and ruling out other conditions. Here’s what a typical assessment might involve:
Clinical Interview:
A thorough interview with the patient is the primary tool for diagnosis. The clinician will inquire about the patient’s history of stealing, their thoughts and feelings before, during, and after stealing episodes, and the impact of these episodes on their life.
Assessment of Co-occurring Disorders:
Since kleptomania often co-occurs with other mental health disorders, the clinician will assess for conditions like depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, or other impulse control disorders.
Psychometric Tools:
Standardized questionnaires like the Kleptomania Symptom Assessment Scale (K-SAS) can help assess the severity of symptoms and monitor treatment progress.
Physical Examination and Laboratory Tests:
While not directly related to kleptomania, a physical examination and lab tests may be conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to the behavior, such as neurological or endocrine disorders.
This book Clinical Manual of Impulse-Control Disorders provides detailed guidance on the clinical assessment and diagnosis of kleptomania and other impulse control disorders. It covers the interview process, diagnostic criteria, assessment tools, and differential diagnosis. It’s a valuable resource for clinicians working with patients with kleptomania.[7]
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
The DSM-5 criteria for a diagnosis of kleptomania include:
- Recurrent impulses to steal and instances of stealing objects that are not need for personal use or financial gain
- Feeling increased tension right before the theft
- Feeling pleasure, gratification, or relief at the time of the theft
- Thefts are not commit in response to delusions or hallucinations, or as expressions of revenge or anger
- Thefts cannot better explained by Antisocial Personality Disorder, Conduct Disorder, or a manic episode
The age of onset for kleptomania is variable. It can begin in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and in rare cases, late adulthood. [2]
Differential Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis Of Kleptomania
When diagnosing kleptomania, it’s important to differentiate it from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. These include:
Ordinary Theft:
Unlike individuals with kleptomania, those who engage in ordinary theft are typically motivated by the desire for personal gain or financial benefit. They plan their actions and do not experience the same emotional cycle of tension, gratification, and guilt.
Shoplifting:
While kleptomania can occur in the context of shoplifting, it’s important to distinguish it from regular shoplifting, which is often motivated by financial need, peer pressure, or thrill-seeking.
Mania:
During hectic episodes, individuals may engage in impulsive behaviors like stealing. However, this behavior is part of a broader hecticsyndrome characterized by elevated mood, grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, and other symptoms.
Antisocial Personality Disorder:
Individuals with antisocial personality disorder may engage in stealing as part of a broader pattern of disregard for social norms and the rights of others. They lack remorse and guilt, which are prominent features of kleptomania.
The DSM-5-TR provides detailed criteria for diagnosing kleptomania and explicitly addresses the differential diagnosis with other conditions. It offers guidance on how to distinguish kleptomania from ordinary theft, shoplifting, mania, and antisocial personality disorder. This information is essential for clinicians to make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.[4]
Complications
Complications Of Kleptomania
Kleptomania, if left untreated, can lead to a variety of complications and negative consequences in various aspects of a person’s life:
Legal Issues:
Repeated stealing can lead to arrests, criminal charges, and legal consequences, including fines, probation, or even jail time.
Financial Problems:
Individuals with kleptomania may accumulate significant debt due to fines, legal fees, or the cost of stolen items. They may also lose their jobs or face financial difficulties due to their behavior.
Relationship Strain:
Kleptomania can damage relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. The secrecy, shame, and betrayal associated with stealing can lead to conflict, distrust, and broken relationships.
Occupational Problems:
Kleptomania can interfere with work performance and lead to job loss. The stress of hiding the behavior and the fear of getting caught can also create a hostile work environment.
Emotional Distress:
Kleptomania is often accompanied by intense feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression. The constant cycle of stealing and remorse can lead to significant emotional distress and a diminished quality of life.
Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders:
Kleptomania frequently co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and other impulse control disorders. These conditions can worsen the symptoms of kleptomania and make treatment more challenging.
This book Clinical Manual of Impulse-Control Disorders provides a comprehensive overview of impulse control disorders, including kleptomania. It discusses the clinical features, etiology, complications, and treatment options for these disorders. The section on kleptomania specifically addresses the potential consequences of the disorder, highlighting the importance of early intervention and treatment.[7]
Investigations
Investigation Of Kleptomania
There are no specific laboratory tests or imaging studies to diagnose kleptomania. However, certain investigations can help rule out other medical conditions that may mimic or contribute to kleptomania symptoms.
Clinical Interview:
A thorough clinical interview with the patient is the primary tool for diagnosing kleptomania. The clinician will inquire about the frequency, intensity, and duration of stealing episodes, the thoughts and feelings associated with stealing, and the impact of the behavior on the patient’s life.
Psychometric Assessment:
Standardized questionnaires, such as the Kleptomania Symptom Assessment Scale (K-SAS), can help assess the severity of symptoms and monitor treatment progress.
Physical Examination:
A physical examination may be conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to the behavior, such as neurological or endocrine disorders.
Laboratory Tests:
Blood tests may be ordered to assess for hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions that could contribute to impulsivity or compulsive behaviors.
This book Clinical Manual of Impulse-Control Disorders provides detailed guidance on the clinical assessment and diagnosis of kleptomania and other impulse control disorders. It covers the interview process, diagnostic criteria, assessment tools, and differential diagnosis, including the use of psychometric assessments and the role of physical examination and laboratory tests in ruling out other medical conditions.[7]
Treatment
Treatment of Kleptomania
The symptoms of kleptomania include combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Counseling or therapy may be in a group or one-on-one setting.
It is usually aimed at dealing with underlying psychological problems that may be contributing to kleptomania. [2]
Possible treatments include:
- Covert sensitization, in which you picture yourself stealing and then facing negative consequences, such as being caught
- Aversion therapy, in which you practice mildly painful techniques, such as holding your breath until you become uncomfortable, when you get an urge to steal
- Systematic desensitization, in which you practice relaxation techniques and picture yourself controlling urges to steal [1]
- Behavior modification therapy
- Family therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Psychodynamic therapy [2]
Medications:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which raise serotonin levels in the brain, may also be used to treat kleptomania. [2]
- An addiction medication called naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, which may reduce the urges and pleasure associated with stealing. [1]
Prevention
Prevention Of Kleptomania
There are no guaranteed methods to prevent kleptomania, as the exact causes are not fully understood. However, some strategies may help reduce the risk or manage the condition:
Early Intervention:
Addressing any underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, can help reduce the risk of developing kleptomania. If a person experiences urges to steal, seeking professional help early on can prevent the behavior from becoming a compulsive disorder.
Therapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. It can be effective in teaching coping skills to manage urges and resist the impulse to steal.
Medication:
In some cases, medication may be used alongside therapy to help manage symptoms of kleptomania, especially if co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or anxiety are present.
This book Clinical Manual of Impulse-Control Disorders does not explicitly discuss prevention strategies for kleptomania. However, it provides comprehensive information on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of kleptomania, which can be helpful in understanding the disorder and developing personalized management plans to prevent escalation of symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.[7]
Homeopathic Treatment
Homeopathic Treatment of Kleptomania
Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis.
which includes
- The medical history of the patient,
- Physical and mental constitution,
- Family history,
- Presenting symptoms,
- Underlying pathology,
- Possible causative factors etc.
A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions.
What Homoeopathic doctors do?
A homeopathy doctor tries to treat more than just the presenting symptoms. The focus is usually on what caused the disease condition? Why ‘this patient’ is sick ‘this way’?.
The disease diagnosis is important but in homeopathy, the cause of disease not just probed to the level of bacteria and viruses. Other factors like mental, emotional and physical stress that could predispose a person to illness also looked for. No a days, even modern medicine also considers a large number of diseases as psychosomatic. The correct homeopathy remedy tries to correct this disease predisposition.
The focus is not on curing the disease but to cure the person who is sick, to restore the health. If a disease pathology not very advanced, homeopathy remedies do give a hope for cure but even in incurable cases, the quality of life can greatly improved with homeopathic medicines.
Homeopathic Medicines for Kleptomania:
The homeopathic remedies (medicines) given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the homeopathy treatment of this condition. The symptoms listed against each homeopathic remedy may not be directly related to this disease because in homeopathy general symptoms and constitutional indications also taken into account for selecting a remedy.
Homeopathic treatment for kleptomania is natural, safe and without any side-effects, and one can enjoy immense relief from these frustrating symptoms.
It is a patient-oriented science and medicines are prescribed on the characteristics of the individual rather than just the symptoms of the disease.
When kleptomania is concerned there are many effective medicines available in Homoeopathy , but the selection depends upon the individuality of the patient , considering mental and physical symptoms.
Absinthium:
- Generally, Absinthium is one of the best remedies for kleptomania , where the person forgets what has recently happened.
- Furthermore, Hallucinations, loss of memory also frightful visions are other nature of this remedy.
Calcarea Carbonica:
- Calcarea carb is one of the top remedies for kleptomania with inclination to steal also tell lies.
- They are easily excited and suspicious. Calcarea carb persons are low spirited and apathetic.
Belladonna:
- Belladonna people are easily excitable , also they have a desire to escape or hide.
- In detail, Acuteness of all senses is another character of Belladonna.
- Starts in fright at the approach of others.
Opium:
- Opium is indicated for kleptomania with a tendency to steal and lie.
- They have perversion of all senses.
- Opium person is irritable, nervous, also have a tendency to start.
- Fears especially after fright, which remains.
Pulsatilla Nigricans:
- Pulsatilla is suited to mild, timid also tearful persons with changeable moods.
- Weeps easily.
- Craves company.
- They are suspicious and disgusted at everything.
- Easily offended nature.
Staphysagria:
- In general, Staphysagria is another effective remedy for kleptomania, with want of self control.
- They are sensitive both emotionally also physically.
- Hypochondriacal.
- Great indignation about the things done by others or by himself, grieves about the consequences.
- Lastly, They are irritable, nervous and excitable.
Sulphur:
- Sulphur is indicated for stealing habit in tobacco users or gamblers.
- They are very selfish, no regard for others.
- They are highly impulsive.
- All in all, Foolish happiness and pride, thinks himself in possession of beautiful things, everything looks pretty which the person takes a fancy to , even rags seem beautiful or immensely wealthy.
Thuja Occidentalis:
- Thuja occidentalis is another medicine for kleptomania , where the person have full of hidden plans.
- They are over excited, angry or anxious about trifles.
- Dullness of mind is another nature of Thuja occidentalis.
- They are irritable, quarrelsome, also jealous.
- They have fixed ideas. [3]
Diet & Regimen
Diet & Regimen Of Kleptomania
There is no specific diet or regimen that has been scientifically proven to prevent or treat kleptomania. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to overall well-being and potentially help manage some of the underlying factors that may contribute to kleptomania.
General Recommendations:
Healthy Diet:
Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid excessive sugar, caffeine, and processed foods, as these can negatively impact mood and energy levels.
Regular Exercise:
Engage in regular physical activity, as exercise can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem.
Sleep Hygiene:
Prioritize adequate sleep, as sleep deprivation can worsen impulsivity and other mental health symptoms.
Stress Management:
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
While there isn’t a specific book on diet and regimen for kleptomania, the following resource can provide general guidance on healthy lifestyle practices for mental well-being:
The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time
This book explores the neuroscience behind depression and offers practical strategies for improving mood and overall well-being. While not specific to kleptomania, the recommendations on diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management can be helpful for individuals with mental health conditions.[8]
Do’s and Don'ts
Do’s & Dont’s
Kleptomania Do’s & Dont
Do’s:
- Do seek professional help: Kleptomania is a mental health disorder that requires treatment. A mental health professional can help you understand your condition and develop a treatment plan that works for you.
- Do be honest with yourself and others: It can be difficult to admit you have a problem, but honesty is an important step in recovery.
- Do practice stress management techniques: Stress can trigger kleptomania urges. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
- Do join a support group: Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can be helpful. Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences and learn coping skills.
- Do be patient with yourself: Recovery takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Focus on progress, not perfection.
Don’ts:
- Don’t ignore the problem: Kleptomania won’t go away on its own. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of recovery.
- Don’t give in to urges: When you feel the urge to steal, try to resist it. Distract yourself, call a friend, or engage in a healthy activity.
- Don’t isolate yourself: Talk to someone you trust about your struggles. Sharing your feelings can help you feel less alone and more supported.
- Don’t give up: Recovery is possible. With treatment and support, you can overcome kleptomania and live a fulfilling life.
- Don’t self-medicate: Avoid using drugs or alcohol to cope with kleptomania urges. These substances can worsen your symptoms and lead to other problems.
If you or someone you know is struggling with kleptomania, please seek professional help. There are effective treatments available, and recovery is possible.
Terminology
Terminology Of Kleptomania
The article on kleptomania likely uses several medical and psychological terms. Here are some key terminologies and their meanings that you might encounter:
Kleptomania:
A mental health disorder characterized by a recurrent inability to resist urges to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary value.
Impulse Control Disorder (ICD):
A class of disorders where individuals have difficulty controlling emotions or behaviors, often leading to actions that are harmful to themselves or others. Kleptomania falls under this category.
Compulsion:
A repetitive behavior or mental act that a person feels driven to perform in order to reduce anxiety or distress. In kleptomania, the act of stealing is urge is to steal.
Ego-dystonic:
Behaviors or thoughts that are inconsistent with a person’s sense of self or values. People with kleptomania often feel guilt, shame, and remorse after stealing, indicating that the behavior is ego-dystonic.
Comorbidity:
The presence of one or more additional conditions co-occurring with a primary condition. Kleptomania often occurs alongside other mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders.
Psychotherapy:
A type of treatment for mental health disorders that involves talking with a trained mental health professional. This is a common treatment approach for kleptomania.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
A specific type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to a person’s distress. CBT can be effective in helping people with kleptomania manage their urges and reduce stealing behavior.
Psychotropic Medication:
Medications that affect mental processes and are used to treat various mental health conditions. While there is no specific medication for kleptomania, certain medications may be used to address co-occurring conditions or help manage symptoms.
Recidivism:
The tendency to relapse into criminal or undesirable behavior. In the context of kleptomania, it refers to the likelihood of someone returning to stealing behavior after treatment.
I hope this helps you understand the terms you might find in an article about kleptomania.
In a homeopathic article on Kleptomania, you might come across the following terminologies and their meanings:
Kleptomania:
This refers to the irresistible urge to steal items, even when they are not needed or have little monetary value.
Miasm:
A fundamental disturbance or predisposition to disease within an individual’s system, according to homeopathic theory. Kleptomania is often associated with the psoric miasm.
Psoric Miasm:
This miasm represents a constitutional weakness or imbalance within an individual, characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, and a tendency towards skin conditions. It is believed to be a underlying factor in kleptomania.
Repertory:
A comprehensive index of symptoms and the homeopathic remedies associated with them. It is used to identify the most appropriate remedy for a specific condition based on the individual’s unique symptom profile.
Rubrics:
Specific symptom categories listed in the repertory, along with the remedies that have been found to be effective in treating those symptoms.
Materia Medica:
A collection of detailed information about the properties and effects of homeopathic remedies, including their characteristic symptoms and clinical indications.
Potentization:
The process of diluting and succussing (vigorously shaking) a homeopathic remedy to increase its therapeutic potential.
Constitutional Remedy:
A homeopathic remedy that is chosen based on the individual’s overall physical, mental, and emotional characteristics, rather than just the specific symptoms of their condition. It aims to address the underlying imbalances that contribute to the disease.
Aggravation:
A temporary worsening of symptoms after taking a homeopathic remedy, often seen as a sign that the remedy is working and stimulating the body’s healing response.
Amelioration:
An improvement or reduction in symptoms after taking a homeopathic remedy.
References
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kleptomania/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20364753
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/conditions/kleptomania
- (PDF) Kleptomania-the Compulsion to Steal – ResearchGate. (2017).
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR),Writer: American Psychiatric Association
(2022),Edition: Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR),Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing.Kaplan & Sadock’s Comprehensive Textbook of PsychiatryWriters: Benjamin J. Sadock, Virginia A. Sadock, Pedro Ruiz,(2017)Edition: 10th Edition
Publisher: Wolters Kluwer.- Impulse Control Disorders
Editors: Eric Hollander, Dan J. Stein
Year of Publication: 2006
Edition: 1st Edition
Publisher: American Psychiatric Publishing, Inc. - Clinical Manual of Impulse-Control Disorders,Editors: Jon E. Grant, Brian L. Odlaug,(2014),Edition: 1st Edition
Publisher: American Psychiatric Publishing. - The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time,Author: Alex Korb,(2015)
Publisher: New Harbinger Publications
Also Search As
Also Search As
People can search for homeopathic articles on kleptomania in the following ways:
Online Search Engines:
Use search engines like Google, DuckDuckGo, or Ecosia with keywords such as "homeopathy kleptomania," "homeopathic remedies for kleptomania," or "kleptomania treatment in homeopathy." You can also specify if you are looking for articles, research papers, or case studies.
Homeopathic Journals and Publications:
Many homeopathic journals and publications publish articles on various conditions, including kleptomania. Search online databases of homeopathic journals or visit the websites of reputable homeopathic organizations to find relevant articles.
Homeopathic Libraries and Resource Centers:
Many homeopathic colleges, hospitals, and clinics have libraries or resource centers that contain books, journals, and other materials on homeopathy. You can visit these places to search for articles on kleptomania.
Homeopathic Forums and Online Communities:
There are many online forums and communities dedicated to homeopathy where practitioners and patients discuss various topics, including kleptomania. You can join these forums to search for articles or ask for recommendations.
Consulting a Homeopathic Practitioner:
If you are interested in learning more about homeopathic treatment for kleptomania, it is best to consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner. They can provide you with personalized information and guidance.
There are several ways to search for information on kleptomania:
Online Search Engines:
- Use search engines like Google, Bing, or DuckDuckGo with keywords like "kleptomania," "kleptomania symptoms," "kleptomania treatment," or "kleptomania causes."
- Look for reputable sources like medical websites, mental health organizations, or government health agencies.
Online Health Resources:
- Websites like Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Choosing Therapy provide information on kleptomania, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
- The Recovery Village offers articles and resources on how to overcome kleptomania.
Academic Databases:
- Search academic databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, or PsycINFO for research articles and studies on kleptomania.
Libraries and Bookstores:
- Look for books on kleptomania or related topics in your local library or bookstore.
Mental Health Professionals:
- Consult with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist specializing in impulse control disorders for accurate information and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Kleptomania?
Kleptomania is the recurrent inability to resist urges to steal items that you generally don’t really need and that usually have little value.
What causes Kleptomania?
- Problem in Neurotransmitters
- The brain’s opioid system
- Mental illness
Can kleptomania be treated?
Yes, kleptomania can be treated effectively with a combination of therapy, medication, and support groups.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly helpful in addressing the underlying thoughts and behaviors.
How is kleptomania diagnosed?
Kleptomania is diagnosed by a mental health professional based on a person’s symptoms and a thorough evaluation.
What are the symptoms of Kleptomania?
- Inability to resist powerful urges to steal items that you don’t need
- Feeling increased tension, anxiety or arousal just before theft
- Feel pleasure, relief or gratification while stealing
- Feeling terrible guilt, remorse, self-loathing, shame or fear of arrest after the theft
- Return of the urges and a repetition of the kleptomania cycle
Can homeopathy cure kleptomania?
Homeopathy aims to stimulate the body’s self-healing abilities. While some proponents believe it can address the root cause of kleptomania, claiming a cure is controversial. It’s best seen as supportive therapy alongside conventional treatment.
Can homeopathy help with kleptomania?
Some people believe homeopathy can offer support in managing kleptomania symptoms, but scientific evidence is limited. It’s essential to consult a qualified homeopath and a mental health professional for comprehensive care.
Is homeopathy a safe alternative to conventional treatment for kleptomania?
Homeopathy is generally considered safe, but it’s not advisable to replace conventional treatment with homeopathy alone. Combining both approaches under professional guidance might offer a more comprehensive approach.
How long does it take to see results with homeopathic treatment for kleptomania?
The response time to homeopathic treatment varies from person to person. Some might experience improvement in weeks, while others might take longer. Consistency and professional follow-up are crucial.
Homeopathic Medicines used by Homeopathic Doctors in treatment of Kleptomania?
Homoeopathic medicines for Kleptomania
- Absinthium
- Calcarea Carb
- Belladonna
- Opium
- Pulsatilla
- Staphysagria
- Sulphur
- Thuja
