Signs of kleptomania can be recognized by the presence of an irresistible urge to steal things. Handling steps are needed to control this behavior. Thus, sufferers can avoid danger and legal entanglement. For a kleptomaniac, the act of stealing is not because they need or want the item, but because they are unable to resist the urge to steal. The stolen items are actually ones they can buy themselves or even have no economic value at all.
Kleptomania itself is classified as a mental disorder that is triggered by emotional or self-control problems. People who have impulse control disorders like this will find it difficult to resist the temptation or urge to do dangerous things. Therefore, it is important to know the various signs of kleptomania in order to get treatment.
Signs of Kleptomania
Kleptomania is not the same as theft based on criminal motives. Here are some signs of kleptomania that are often experienced by sufferers:
- Stealing anywhere
One of the main signs of kleptomania is an irresistible urge to steal anywhere. Usually, a kleptomaniac steals in crowded places, such as supermarkets or shops. However, it is not uncommon for them to steal in private places, such as the homes of friends or relatives. - Feeling of increasing tension before stealing
Before stealing, kleptomaniacs usually feel intense tension. This feeling of tension is related to uncontrolled impulse control disorders. - Feeling relieved and happy after stealing
Another sign of kleptomania experienced by sufferers is feeling relieved, happy, or even satisfied after stealing an item. However, they will also immediately feel ashamed, guilty, regretful, hate themselves, or fear of being caught. - Never use stolen items
Items stolen by a kleptomaniac are often just put away, stored, or given back to someone else. In fact, it is not uncommon for stolen items to be secretly returned to their owners. - Having an urge to steal that comes and goes
The urge to steal can come and go is also one of the signs of kleptomania. Theft can also occur with greater or lesser intensity over time. In addition, theft committed by kleptomaniacs is not based on hallucinations, delusions, anger, or revenge.
The cause of kleptomania is not yet known for certain. However, this condition is thought to be related to genetic factors and hormonal imbalances in the brain, namely the hormones serotonin and dopamine. In fact, people with kleptomania sometimes also have other mental disorders, such as depression, excessive anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, or eating disorders.
How to Overcome Kleptomania
After knowing the various signs of kleptomania, it can be concluded that this condition is a mental disorder that cannot be underestimated. If left untreated, kleptomania can cause suffering for sufferers and their families. Some kleptomaniacs hold back the shame caused by the disorder. In fact, they are afraid that they will be arrested and imprisoned so they do not dare to seek professional help.
Until now, there is no specific medicine that can cure kleptomania. However, treatment with psychotherapy and medication can suppress the urge to steal in kleptomaniacs. Therapy carried out for kleptomaniacs is generally aimed at identifying the psychological problems that trigger it. Types of therapy that can be used to treat kleptomania include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Family counseling therapy.
- Psychodynamic.
- Behavior modification therapy.
These therapies are usually done individually or in groups. In addition to therapy, a series of medicines are also given to complement psychological therapy for kleptomaniacs. The medicines used include fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline, which can increase the hormone serotonin in the brain.
If you personally experience the signs or someone you know shows some signs of kleptomania, you should immediately consult a psychiatrist or psychologist. If this behavior can be handled immediately, sufferers can avoid moral, social, and legal risks that can be detrimental in the future.
