A Lifestyle of Stealing

One misunderstood process compulsion is theft. Someone with a compulsion to steal will feel a rush or a high when they shoplift or steal. If they try to avoid stealing, they will experience actual cravings or urges to engage in the behavior. Much like substance-related issues, this compulsion can dominate the mind and become all-encompassing.

Compulsive stealing is not very well understood, and many individuals struggle to admit that they have a compulsion. This is the challenge with process compulsions: there is no substance that creates a physical dependence. It’s simply an activity that becomes compulsive. Those who steal compulsively often feel shame about their actions but find it difficult to stop.

Due to the lack of understanding surrounding compulsive stealing, it can be challenging for those affected to seek help. Acknowledging the issue can lead to feelings of humiliation and the fear of being labeled a criminal. It is crucial to raise awareness about compulsions like this and encourage anyone affected to seek assistance. Therapy and support groups can be highly beneficial, and with the right help, a person with a compulsive stealing issue can lead a normal life.

Management and Treatment for Compulsive Stealing

There’s no standardized approach to treating compulsive stealing, and research on effective treatments is limited. This is partly because those who engage in stealing rarely seek help on their own, making it more difficult to study potential treatments.

The primary form of treatment typically falls under one main category:

Psychotherapy. Also known as mental health therapy or behavioral therapy, this often involves helping individuals understand the reasons behind their behaviors and developing strategies to change or avoid them. Psychotherapy for compulsive stealing generally takes two forms: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and group therapy.