Individuals with kleptomania are typically aware of the morality of their actions, and will readily agree that it is wrong to steal. While kleptomania does cause strong impulses to steal, these thieving events are not triggered or accompanied by hallucinations or feelings of anger or vengeance (The American Psychiatric Association, 2013).ĭespite the strong urges to engage in thievery, those diagnosed with kleptomania are generally able to refrain from illegal activities if there is a significant and immediate likelihood of consequences, such as the presence of security guards, policemen, or cameras. The DSM-5 (The American Psychiatric Association, 2013) states that kleptomania is hallmarked by ever-increasing tension leading up to the theft, and an intense feeling of gratification or relief after. ![]() While it is considered normal to have the occasional impulse to steal or to think about the consequences if you were to steal, kleptomania sufferers have these thoughts frequently and are consistently unable to resist the urges (The American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Often the objects that are stolen are not needed, and often times have no significant monitory value. Kleptomania is an impulse control disorder characterized by the inability to resist the impulse to steal. Disorders in this category can also include those with impulse and behavioral control and problems with authority (The American Psychiatric Association, 2013). The DSM-5 (The American Psychiatric Association, 2013) categorizes disruptive, impulse control, and conduct disorders as mental illness affecting a persons ability to regulate their emotions and behaviors. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., DSM-5, American Psychiatric Association, 2013) is used by licensed psychologists and psychiatrists to compare a patients' symptoms and diagnose mental health disorders. DSM-5 Category: Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders Introduction
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