Kleptomanie

Kleptomanie is an impulse-control disorder characterized by recurrent urges to steal objects not needed for personal use or monetary value. The theft is driven by an irresistible impulse and is not committed to express anger or for gain. Individuals typically experience rising tension before stealing and relief or gratification after the act. The behavior causes distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.

Onset usually occurs in adolescence or early adulthood. Kleptomanie is rare in the general population, with estimates around 0.3% to 0.6%; higher rates are reported in psychiatric settings. The condition more often affects women in some studies, though findings vary. It frequently co-occurs with mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on DSM-5 criteria. There are no laboratory tests to confirm kleptomanie. Differential includes obsessive-compulsive disorder and other impulse-control disorders, and theft for monetary gain must be ruled out.

Treatment typically combines psychotherapy and, when appropriate, pharmacotherapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy focusing on impulse control and relapse prevention is common. Some patients respond to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; there is also limited evidence for opioid antagonists such as naltrexone.

Prognosis is variable; some individuals improve with treatment, while others have chronic, waxing and waning symptoms. Early recognition and integrated care improve outcomes. Ongoing research investigates neurobiological and genetic factors that contribute to kleptomania and related disorders.