#CHARACTERISTICS OF KLEPTOMANIA PROFESSIONAL#

But some cases of kleptomania may never be diagnosed. This creates a strong habit that becomes hard to break. Responding to these urges by stealing causes a temporary decrease in distress and relief from these urges. An imbalance in this system could make it harder to resist urges. Urges are regulated by the brain's opioid system. Dopamine causes pleasurable feelings, and some people seek this rewarding feeling again and again. Stealing may cause the release of dopamine - another neurotransmitter. Low levels of serotonin are common in people prone to impulsive behaviors. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, helps regulate moods and emotions. Problems with a naturally occurring brain chemical called serotonin.More research is needed to better understand these possible causes, but kleptomania may be linked to: Several theories suggest that changes in the brain may be at the root of kleptomania, and that learned patterns of stealing items strengthens the problem over time.

#CHARACTERISTICS OF KLEPTOMANIA PROFESSIONAL#

Your provider may refer you to a mental health professional who can help you plan a way of raising your concerns without making your friend or relative feel defensive or threatened. If you need help preparing for this conversation, talk with your health care provider. Treatments are available that may help to minimize the urge to steal and live without addiction and shame.You understand that, with kleptomania, the urge to steal may be too strong to resist just by 'putting your mind to it.'.You're worried about the risks of compulsive stealing, such as being arrested, losing a job or damaging a valued relationship.You're concerned because you care about the person's health and well-being.

It may be helpful to emphasize these points: Keep in mind that kleptomania is a mental health disorder, not a character flaw, so approach the person without judgment or blame. If you suspect a close friend or family member may have kleptomania, gently raise your concerns with that person. Or they've already been arrested, and they're legally required to seek treatment. Some people seek medical help because they're afraid they'll get caught and have legal problems. However, a mental health provider usually doesn't report your thefts to authorities. Many people who may have kleptomania don't want to seek treatment because they're afraid they'll be arrested or jailed. If you can't stop shoplifting or stealing, seek medical advice.

Urges to steal may come and go or may occur with greater or lesser intensity over the course of time.

Items also may be donated, given away to family or friends, or even secretly returned to the place from which they were stolen.

The stolen items are usually stashed away, never to be used.

Often, the stolen items have no value to the person with kleptomania, and the person can afford to buy them.

Some may steal from friends or acquaintances, such as at a party.

Most people with kleptomania steal from public places, such as stores.

Episodes of kleptomania generally happen suddenly, without planning and without help from another person.

They steal simply because the urge is so powerful that they can't resist it.

Unlike most shoplifters, people with kleptomania don't compulsively steal for personal gain, on a dare, for revenge or out of rebellion.

People with kleptomania usually have these features or characteristics:

Return of the urges and a repetition of the kleptomania cycle.

Feeling terrible guilt, remorse, self-loathing, shame or fear of arrest after the theft.

Feeling pleasure, relief or satisfaction while stealing.

Feeling increased tension, anxiety or arousal leading up to the theft.

Inability to resist powerful urges to steal items that you don't need.

Characteristics of kleptomania