Kleptomania (redirected from kleptomaniac)

kleptomania (klĕp'təmā`nēə) [Gr.,=craze for stealing], irresistible compulsion to steal, motivated by neurotic impulse rather than material need. No specific cause is known. The condition is considered generally as the result of some underlying emotional disturbance rather than as a form of neurosis in itself. Legally kleptomania is not classified as insanity, and individuals are held responsible except when complete lack of control over their actions can be definitely established.

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kleptomania

Psychol a strong impulse to steal, esp when there is no obvious motivation

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kleptomania [‚klep·tə′mā·nē·ə]

(psychology)

An obsessive desire to steal; stolen objects are usually petty and useless, being of symbolic value only.

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Kleptomania 

an irresistible periodic pathological urge to steal.

Kleptomonia is a symptom of psychological disturbance that is attributable to impulsive tendencies. It is seen most often in persons suffering from psychological disturbances and psychopathy. There is no mercenary motivation in kleptomania; the stolen goods are not, as a rule, sold for profit. Kleptomania is eliminated by treating the primary condition.