Abstract
The descriptive outline of kleptomania is vague in the DSM-5 and the ICD-10 diagnostic criteria, and the research of habitual stealing apparently falls behind the other mental disorders. Few clinicians are willing to accept patients with this disorder. On the other hand, we started a registration system of patients with habitual theft in 2008 and it adds up to 1000 cases since that time. This report describes our clinical experience with patients suffering from this mental disorder. Medical treatment for kleptomania presently consists of counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, group psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, self-help groups and others. It is advisable that a physician prepare for the possible repeat offenses and discuss the matter with the patients and family members in the first session, since repeat offenses are almost unavoidable in some cases even in the period of treatment. Kleptomaniac patients must make honest report of all crimes including the theft (shoplifting) and repay all the damages with compensation after the start of the treatment. We make it a rule to request the patients and family members a written oath on this matter. We encourage strongly the kleptomaniac patients to participate in self-help groups while individual psychotherapy is also essential.
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