Introduction

Kleptomania has been portrayed in movies as a natural part of a rebellious teen's experience; however, there is much more to it. Kleptomania is an impulse control disorder that has its place in the world of mental health conditions. This is a condition that can start showing symptoms as early as adolescence, and they must receive the correct treatment at this stage of development. Ensuring that teenagers get adequate mental health support and potential treatment can lessen the effects of this condition in adulthood. 

This article will dive into the clinical aspect of kleptomania, including symptoms and treatment. Additionally,  will discuss the specific aspects of these conditions in relation to teenagers and ways in which this condition impacts them and how they can be supported. 

Understanding kleptomania

Kleptomania is an impulse disorder characterised by the recurrent compulsive urge to steal. Typically, individulas with this condition gain satisfaction and pleasure from the act of stealing. This condition affects women more than men, with a ratio of 3:1.¹ The DSM-5 lists kleptomania under the “Disruptive, Impulsive, Control, Conduct Disorders” category, along with other conditions like pyromania. 

In many cases, there is difficulty in distinguishing between people who steal for monetary gain and those with kleptomania. This can lead to kleptomaniacs not getting sufficient treatment and  being jailed instead. This is, unfortunately, the case for many male kleptomaniacs.¹ The main differences include:

• Kleptomaniacs get satisfaction from stealing, while those without kleptomania do not
• Kleptomaniacs have urges to steal, which are almost impossible to resist
• Unlike ordinary thieves, kleptomaniacs tend to steal things with no or little monetary value 

Why adolescence is a critical period 

Adolescence is a critical period in any child's development, and a condition like kleptomania makes it more difficult. Adolescence is the transitional phase between childhood and adulthood and usually spans about 9 years.² Teenagers usually go through major changes, particularly cognitive and psychosocial ones.  Additionally, studies have shown that significant reorganisation occurs in the human brain during adolescence.³ 

All these changes make teenagers more susceptible to a wide variety of mental health conditions like eating disorders, anxiety and depression.⁴ Additionally, during this period, teenagers are more likely to take part in risky behaviours like stealing. 

Common signs and symptoms in teenagers 

Common signs and symptoms of kleptomania include:

• An irresistible and strong urge to steal items, particularly those that aren't needed by the teen or of any value
• A teen may appear anxious when in a store or when shopping with others 
• Feelings of relief or satisfaction after stealing 
• Oftentimes, the items stolen are not kept but rather returned or given away to others 
• Teens are aware that their stealing is wrong, and this can lead to severe feelings of guilt

These signs are varied, and at times, it can be difficult for the untrained eye to spot. However, it is important to maintain an open line of communication with teens so that they feel comfortable opening up to you.

Possible causes and risk factors 

Genetic factors

Many mental disorders have been associated with genetic factors. Oftentimes, people with kleptomania have a family member with a history of mental health illness. However, scientists have yet to find a conclusive link to genetic causes for kleptomania.⁵ 

Neurochemical imbalances

Studies have shown that imbalances in chemicals like serotonin play a key role in the development of kleptomania. Additionally, medications that target these chemicals (neurotransmitters), like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be used in the management of this condition.⁶

Underlying psychiatric conditions

People with kleptomania have been found to have a higher likelihood of having other mental health conditions. Mood disorders like anxiety are common in kleptomaniacs. Additionally, it is common for kleptomaniacs to have other impulse control disorders. ⁷

Peer Pressure

Peer pressure and social influences can be a substantial contributing factor in the diagnosis of kleptomania, particularly in teens. The desire to fit in can lead to teenagers partaking in risky behaviours like stealing. 

Psychological and Social Consequences 

The impact of this condition is felt not only by the teenager affected but by everyone in their lives. 

The consequences are vast and can result in the loss of friends and even legal problems. 

Strained relationships and trust issues

Teens who have kleptomania not only have the urge to steal from stores or supermarkets but urges to steal from friends and family. This can lead to issues with loved ones and can result in a loss of trust. Additionally, teens may be isolated from friends at school because of their condition.  

Disciplinary consequences

Many disciplinary consequences may result from stealing that kleptomaniac teens feel compelled to do. This can start from an educational level, with teens being suspended or, in extreme cases expulsion. Additionally, if one is caught stealing from a store, there is the possibility of being arrested and facing jail time. 

Emotional toll

Although kleptomaniacs may feel relief after stealing, this can be short-lived, with other feelings such as guilt replacing the temporary high they get. The shame that is usually associated with stealing can be a lot for a teen to bear. 

Diagnosis and when to seek help 

For teens suffering from this condition, it is vital for them  to receive an early diagnosis. Before they can be diagnosed, it is important for the adults in the teenager's life to be able to accurately recognise the red flags which include:

• Anxious behaviour when in shopping malls or in the homes of others
• Accusations of theft against the teen from friends and family 
• A teen informing you that they have an uncontrollable urge to steal 

Once these red flags have been identified, it is essential to seek the correct help for these teens. 

Specialists like psychiatrists can help diagnose kleptomania. This usually involes assessments and, based on the signs and symptoms that the teen presents with, a diagnosis of kleptomania can be made. 

Treatment options and support strategies 

Treatment of kleptomania can range from support groups to medical management with pills, depending on the severity. 

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of talking therapy that helps patients understand how their thoughts can impact their actions. Additionally, it can provide them with the tools to change negative patterns in their lives. Studies have shown that CBT can help improve one's quality of life.⁸ This is often used as the first-line treatment of kleptomania. 

Medication

In some cases, medication is necessary. Antidepressants like SSRIs have been proven to be successful in treating kleptomania. 

Support groups

In treating any mental health condition, it is important to have as much support as they can get. Several support groups exist that can help people with kleptomania. Additionally, having family and friends who create a supportive and non-judgmental space can significantly help. 

Summary 

Kleptomania is a mental health issue that causes uncontrollable urges to steal. Other features of this condition include getting a sense of relief from the act of stealing. Symptoms of this condition tend to present in adolescence. The physical and emotional changes that teens go through during their adolescence phase make them more susceptible to mental health conditions like kleptomania. Some potential risk factors and causes of this condition include genetic factors, peer pressure and previous mental health conditions. It is important for adults to recognise the signs of kleptomania in their teens. This can allow for early diagnosis by a psychiatrist. Treatment of this condition can range from cognitive behavioural therapy to the use of medications such as SSRIs.

FAQs

What is the cure for kleptomania?

Some treatments can effectively help this condition. These can range from talking therapies such as CBT to medications such as SSRIs.

What happens when kleptomania is untreated?

When kleptomania is left untreated, it can result in many negative consequences, including an emotional toll on the person affected by this condition. 

Do kleptomaniacs remember stealing?

Yes, kleptomaniacs remember stealing, although they might never keep or use the item they have stolen.