Kleptomania: when compulsive stealing takes over your life

Kleptomania: when compulsive stealing takes over your life

Author: ABC Australia July 12, 2025 Duration: 27:10

What drives some people to steal compulsively?

This week, as part of our special four-part series Criminal Psychology, we're talking about kleptomania and the impact it can have on a person's life.

We speak to someone who’s been diagnosed with kleptomania about their experiences; from their urges to steal, to the guilt and shame they feel.

We also chat to a psychiatrist about what treatment looks like for people with kleptomania.

Guests:

Lynn

Dr Sam ChamberlainProfessor of Psychiatry, University of Southampton 

Credits:

  • Presenter/Producer: Sana Qadar
  • Reporter/Senior Producer: James Bullen
  • Producer: Rose Kerr
  • Sound Engineer: Emrys Cronin
  • Voice Actor: Swa Kaushik

More information:

Symptom Severity and Its Clinical Correlates in Kleptomania

A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of the Opiate Antagonist, Naltrexone, in the Treatment of Kleptomania

Why do young children sometimes steal? And what should parents do about it?

Kleptomania — Mayo Clinic

Kleptomania and Potential Exacerbating Factors


Ever wondered what's really happening inside your head? Each week, All In The Mind from ABC Australia ventures into the complex landscape of human thought and feeling. This isn't just a dry science lecture; it's a thoughtful exploration of the experiences that shape us, hosted by curious minds who know how to tell a compelling story. You'll hear conversations that bridge the gap between scientific research and the messy reality of daily life, delving into topics as diverse as the mechanisms of memory, the challenges of breaking an addiction, or the ethical puzzles posed by artificial intelligence. The discussions are grounded and accessible, making the inner workings of the brain relevant to anyone interested in health, behaviour, or simply understanding themselves a little better. By tuning into this podcast, you join a community considering how our mental universe influences everything from our personal fitness to our social connections. It’s a weekly opportunity to pause and reflect on the fascinating forces-both biological and psychological-that drive what we do and who we are. The production brings together expert insights with genuine human stories, creating a space where complex ideas about the mind and behaviour are unpacked with clarity and depth.
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