Table of contents:
- The causes of kleptomania you need to know
- 1. There is a problem with serotonin
- 2. Having an addictive disorder
- 3. Imbalance of the brain's opioid system
Stealing is a criminal offense by taking something that belongs to someone else without permission. However, this bad habit is not only out of necessity and deliberate, but can be an indication of a mental illness, namely kleptomania.
This mental illness can make it difficult for a person to refrain from stealing or taking other people's belongings. In fact, they do not need these items, can afford to buy them, or are not even worth money if they are resold. After committing the theft, people with this condition will feel relaxed and relieved.
So, what are the causes of someone having kleptomania? Find out the answer in the review below.
The causes of kleptomania you need to know
Actually, this "stealing" disease is not known for sure. However, several theories suggest that the brain changes in patients with this condition are associated with several things, such as:
1. There is a problem with serotonin
Serotonin is a natural chemical that the body produces from amino acids trytophan and can be found in the brain, digestive system, and in blood platelets. Serotonin has an important role for the body, such as helping the wound healing process, maintaining healthy bones, and regulating mood and emotions.
Very low levels of serotonin in the body can make a person prone to impulsive behavior. Namely, doing something suddenly according to your mood without thinking about the consequences. This is why researchers have linked the problem with serotonin with a "stealing" mental illness.
2. Having an addictive disorder
Maybe at first this act of stealing was done out of compulsion due to economic hardship. After successfully committing theft once, twice, and so on, stealing can become a habit and addictive. Why?
Stealing releases dopamine, a hormone that stimulates feelings of pleasure. Now, the feelings of tension, pleasure, and relief that were done after and during the stealing, may be an impetus for someone to do it over and over again.
3. Imbalance of the brain's opioid system
Use of illegal drugs, such as opioids, can cause an imbalance of opioids in the brain. As a result, a person will become addicted and dependent on this drug.
Opioid dependence can lead to addictive disorders; a person so unable to stop himself from doing something. For example, taking other people's belongings and possibly taking the action repeatedly.
