Can you go to jail if you have kleptomania?

Kleptomania is considered uncommon. However, some people with kleptomania may never seek treatment, or they’re simply jailed after repeated thefts, so some cases of kleptomania may never be diagnosed.

Should Kleptomaniacs be punished?

Kleptomania CAN Be Treated And Should NOT Be Punished Left untreated, kleptomania results in severe emotional, family, work, legal and financial problems. Because the Kleptomaniac knows stealing is wrong, but feels powerless to resist the impulse, he or she is wracked by guilt, shame, self-loathing and humiliation.

Is kleptomaniac a crime?

Kleptomania is an enigmatic condition in which crime (theft) forms a part of its diagnostic criteria. Not surprisingly, it is commonly used by the defence counsel for mitigation of theft and related offences, especially for repeat theft offenders.

How often do kleptomaniacs steal?

How common is kleptomania? Although shoplifting is common, true kleptomania is quite rare (0.3 to 0.6 percent of the general population).

Is kleptomania a legal defense?

Though kleptomania is a legitimate mental health condition recognized by the medical establishment, it cannot be used as a legal criminal defense. In other words, an individual is fully responsible for their stealing activity and can be prosecuted despite a diagnosis of kleptomania.

What causes a person to be a kleptomaniac?

Kleptomania is an irresistible urge to steal. It is believed to be caused by genetics, neurotransmitter abnormalities and the presence of other psychiatric conditions. The problem may be linked to a brain chemical known as serotonin, which regulates the moods and emotions of an individual.

How do you deal with a kleptomaniac relative?

Your doctor may consider prescribing:

1. An addiction medication called naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, which may reduce the urges and pleasure associated with stealing.
2. An antidepressant — specifically a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
3. Other medications or a combination of medications.

Is kleptomania an insanity?

Is kleptomania an addiction?

Kleptomania is unique among the behavioral addictions. The diagnostic criteria for the disorder include “recurrent failure to resist impulses to steal objects that are not needed for personal use or for their monetary value” (Ref. 3, p 478).

Why does it feel good to steal?

People with kleptomania feel strong urges to steal, with anxiety, tension, and arousal leading up to the theft and feeling pleasure and relief during the theft. Many kleptomaniacs also feel guilty or remorseful after the act of stealing is over, but are later unable to resist the urge.

How do you deal with kleptomania?

Coping and support

1. Stick to your treatment plan. Take medications as directed and attend scheduled therapy sessions.
2. Educate yourself.
3. Identify your triggers.
4. Get treatment for substance abuse or other mental health problems.
5. Find healthy outlets.
6. Learn relaxation and stress management.
7. Stay focused on your goal.