Kleptomania: When Stealing is an Addiction

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[x]   Transcript: Shoplifting is one of the most common crimes in the U.S. According to the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention, more than half a million shoplifting crimes occur every day, totaling more than $35 million dollars in stolen goods. Experts estimate 3 million Americans are addicted to shoplifting. And research shows that one in eleven people are shoplifters, and that as many as 90 percent of us have shoplifted at least once in our lives! Some people shoplift because they don't have enough money to buy food or clothes. Other people shoplift as a game, to see what they can get away with. Others try it in adolescence, as another form of experimentation or rebellion. And others do it because they can't stop. Though not recognized as an official medical condition, compulsive shoplifting and kleptomania is considered a problem. There are even support groups and treatment centers for such addictions, including CASA (Cleptomaniacs And Shoplifters Anonymous). According to compulsive stealing expert, and former shoplifting addict, Terrence Shulman, people with a compulsive shoplifting problem have repressed anger issues. They often have other compulsive behaviors as well, such as overeating, shopping, drug use, or gambling. They steal to make themselves feel better, or to escape other problems. It is a disease that stems from depression, low self-esteem or anger. They don't usually steal out of greed or for profit. Usually, they don't care about the financial worth of the objects they are taking. It is the act of shoplifting they find fulfilling-at least for the moment. After stealing, people with compulsive shoplifting tendencies tend to fall into a spiral of self-loathing. Even when they're caught, they often can't stop. Many compulsive shoplifters face fines, legal fees and jail-but what most people suffering from this issue need is therapy, to kick the addiction. Some signs of compulsive shoplifting may include: getting a high or rush from stealing, using shoplifting to cope with anger, frustration, bad moods or disappointment, lying to hide the shoplifting habit, problems at work or home because of shoplifting, and trying to stop shoplifting and not being able to. It is possible to recover from a shoplifting addiction, but trying to stop on your own usually doesn't work. If you believe you, or someone you know, has a problem with shoplifting, speak with a mental health professional, or contact your local shoplifters anonymous chapter.

[x]   Bio:

Dr. Jeff Gardere, better known as America's Psychologist, is one of the most widely sought-after experts in the field of mental health. In addition to having a private practice in Manhattan, he has garnered a reputation as being a top motivational and keynote speaker.Dr. Gardere is also one of most popular personalities in the media. In addition to being the Host of VH1's Dad Camp, he is the official "in house doctor" for the Maury Povich Show and an NBC Today Show Contributor. He is also a regular guest on: CNN, MSNBC, The CBS Early Morning Show, Fox Business News, FOX News, Nancy Grace, Tru-TV Reality Specials and Court Shows.Dr. Gardere has authored several books, including the controversial Love Prescription.He is also the co-author of Practical Parenting with Montel Williams, the Emmy-award winning TV talk show host. Dr. Gardere's first book, Smart Parenting for African-Americans: Helping Your Kids Thrive in a Difficult World has been lauded as being "necessary for raising African-American children in today's society." (Black Issues Book Review). Dr. Jeff is also a monthly columnist for Sister 2 Sister.