- Definition: Kleptomania is a psychiatric disorder characterized by an irresistible impulse to steal items that are not needed for personal use or for their monetary value. It is a type of impulse control disorder and can cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
- Etymology: The word ‘kleptomania’ comes from the Greek words “kleptein” (meaning to steal) and “mania” (meaning madness or frenzy).
- Origin: The term was first used in the early 19th century by French psychiatrist Jean-Étienne Dominique Esquirol. It was used to describe an uncontrollable impulse to steal, which was seen as a form of mental illness. The concept has evolved over time, with an increased understanding of its psychological aspects.
Kleptomania: Understanding the Impulse Disorder’s Definition and Origins
