The term “kleptomania” originates from the Greek words “kleptēs” (thief) and “mania” (madness). It was first coined in the 19th century by German psychiatrist Carl Westphal to describe a condition characterized by an irresistible impulse to steal. The concept gained recognition as a psychiatric disorder, distinct from criminal behavior as studies in the area of mental health became more scientific and evidence based.

The understanding and treatment of kleptomania have evolved over time, moving away from moral judgment towards recognition as a psychiatric disorder requiring specialized care. Today, it is studied within the broader spectrum of impulse control disorders, emphasizing both psychological and pharmacological interventions tailored to individual needs.

Kleptomania is now understood as a mental health condition characterized by recurrent inability to resist urges to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary gain. Often misunderstood and misjudged as mere criminal behavior, kleptomania is recognized by mental health professionals as a genuine psychiatric disorder with its own set of distinctive features and challenges.

Kleptomania is listed diagnosis in both the DSM5 and ICD-10.

In In the DSM-5 kleptomania is classified under the category of “Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders.” It is characterized by recurrent failure to resist impulses to steal objects that are not needed for personal use or monetary value, and the stealing is typically done impulsively without premeditation or planning.

In the ICD-10, kleptomania is classified under “Disorders of Impulse Control Not Elsewhere Classified” (F63.2). It describes the condition as a recurrent failure to resist impulses to steal objects that are not acquired for personal use or monetary gain.

Controlling impulse and resist the pathological urge to steal and a lack of ability to control that urge to the obsessive anxiety resulting in a compulsion to steal and thereby relieving the anxiety seems the main feature of the disorder in both DSM and ICD. The “theft” however gives rise to guilt and shame later. However, the cycle continues next time when the person is exposed to the “environment” where the “his object” is present.

Main Features and Signs of Kleptomania

Individuals with kleptomania typically experience intense urges to steal items that are often of little to no value to them personally. These urges are accompanied by a sense compulsion to steal and strong tension and anxiety before committing the theft, and a feeling of relief or gratification afterward, despite feelings of guilt, remorse, or shame. Importantly, the act of stealing is not premeditated and is usually impulsive in nature.

Those affected often go to great lengths to conceal their behavior due to embarrassment or fear of legal consequences. Family members or friends might notice unexplained items in their possession, frequent disappearances during shopping trips, or inconsistencies in their stories about possessions.

Prominent Personalities having Kleptomania

Throughout history, several prominent figures have been exhibited symptoms of kleptomania. One notable example is the case of Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, the renowned French naturalist, whose compulsive behavior included stealing plants from the royal botanical gardens. His actions, driven by irresistible urges rather than material need, underscore the compulsive nature of kleptomania.

Winona Ryder a well-known actress was caught shoplifting in 2001. She attributed her actions to stress and a psychological condition resembling kleptomania, leading to a public discussion about the disorder.

Robert Hanssen, former FBI agent was convicted of spying for the Soviet Union and Russia. Hanssen was also known for his compulsive stealing of random items, such as pens and paper clips, from FBI offices throughout his career.

David Bowie, the legendary musician admitted in interviews to having struggled with kleptomania during his younger years. He described it as a manifestation of his restlessness and a way to deal with anxiety.

Etiology

Kleptomania has a multifactorial causation. Genetic, Biological, psychological and socio-cultural factors all play a crucial role in giving rise to the condition.

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Why of Kleptomania