Kleptomania Support Group
Kleptomania is an inability to resist impulses of stealing. A person with this disorder is compelled to steal things, generally things of little or no value, such as pens, decorative pins, or wall decorations. They are often unaware of performing the theft until some time later. If you are suffering from kleptomania, join the group and get support.
I feel for many of those posting here. Some stories have really resonated with me.
My 8 year old son--joined our family through foster care almost 2 years ago--is stealing from his classmates (and once from a store...that we know of). His teachers almost act like it's no big deal, but I see a pattern emerging.
We consistently provide consequences, including making him: apologize to the kid he stole from (or to the store managers); return the stolen item; and/or pay-back for stealing by giving up something of his that is similar to the stolen item. He just doesn't seem to click on and "learn," however. When's he's caught, he acts like our punishment of him is unfair...like he has no remorse. I just don't get it.
Of course, he's not able to vocalize his motivations or needs. Is this anger for being "left" by his biological mom? Is this reaction to the rejection by his peers? Is this an effort to control his uncontrollable world? Is this a symptom of a chemical imbalance?
All my husband and I can do is react consistently and clearly explain the consequences. But we're deeply concerned: right now it's pencils, candy, and pencil sharpeners. Right now his teachers think it's a "phase." What will happen when he's no longer a cute little boy...when he becomes a young man who steals?
Are consistent consequences, clear explanations, and treatment plans enough? Thanks!
My 8 year old son--joined our family through foster care almost 2 years ago--is stealing from his classmates (and once from a store...that we know of). His teachers almost act like it's no big deal, but I see a pattern emerging.
We consistently provide consequences, including making him: apologize to the kid he stole from (or to the store managers); return the stolen item; and/or pay-back for stealing by giving up something of his that is similar to the stolen item. He just doesn't seem to click on and "learn," however. When's he's caught, he acts like our punishment of him is unfair...like he has no remorse. I just don't get it.
Of course, he's not able to vocalize his motivations or needs. Is this anger for being "left" by his biological mom? Is this reaction to the rejection by his peers? Is this an effort to control his uncontrollable world? Is this a symptom of a chemical imbalance?
All my husband and I can do is react consistently and clearly explain the consequences. But we're deeply concerned: right now it's pencils, candy, and pencil sharpeners. Right now his teachers think it's a "phase." What will happen when he's no longer a cute little boy...when he becomes a young man who steals?
Are consistent consequences, clear explanations, and treatment plans enough? Thanks!
deleted_user
If you think there is a problem emerging, therapy might be a good option. I know that I would steal small things sometimes as a kid. I don't know why though. Or why I still do. I wish I could offer more help. Just hang in tight and stay consistant... maybe with excalating punishments the more he does it.. and continue to make the punishments fit the crime. My parents would use the same punishments for everything.. which lessoned how much I cared, because I knew that I would do something that would lead me to losing tv, phone and outside priveleges so why try to be good? Good luck with him! It sounds like you really care about him
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theatre and I are there already. I'm having a very berry tea with crackers, cheese and cherry tomatoes and she's having a joint with some beer and we're both on really comfy recliners on thick pile carpet. we need some help with the decor if anyone is around??
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I'm trying to exercise daily. I was doing fairly well until I sprained my ankle 2 weeks ago but now I'm getting back on the horse. Today I walked over a mile with my arm weights that are about 22lbs total. I was out of shape and it was hard on my arms. I also did my 30 situps. I'm also going to drink a lot of water and try to eat healthy. I do tend to have a sweet tooth but I'm cutting...
