Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Kleptomania: A Case Study

Kleptomania is a disabling impulse control disorder, that can be treated with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This was achieved through the results of a case study. The presenting case is 20-year-old college student. The complaint at the first interview was that she was stealing from others during childhood, with other symptoms matching DSM-5 for diagnosis of kleptomania.

Study aims to use of CBT techniques to treat of kleptomania, with the application of psychological analysis theory techniques.

Used of the clinical interview, thematic apperception test (TAT) and neuroticism trait from big five personality traits. With these measurements was determined causes and level of the disorder, in addition behavior motivated and neuroticism trait.

Through the application of techniques and strategies of CBT and psychological analysis theory techniques the patient was treated for kleptomania symptoms and neuroticism trait (anxiety, anger, hostility, depression, consciousness-self, impulsiveness, stress and vulnerability). After treatment, the patient regained the ability to self-control, control of negative thoughts, and emotional stability.

The study recommends for avoid harsh punishment, the Importance of using the right methods of education with children and adolescents, especially the child talented. In addition to the importance of dealing with the kleptomania as a disease and not a crime. With the possibility using of projective tests and some psychological analysis techniques with CBT.