Understanding Kleptophobia: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Kleptophobia, also called cleptophobia, is a specific fear centered around theft. This condition actually covers two distinct anxieties: the fear of being a victim of theft or robbery, and the fear of committing theft oneself. These fears often overlap and can exist simultaneously in individuals.

Although kleptophobia is not formally classified as a separate mental health disorder, it may fall under the criteria for a specific phobia as outlined in the DSM-5. Specific phobias involve an overwhelming and irrational fear of particular objects or situations.

Causes

While the precise origins of specific phobias remain unclear, traumatic or negative experiences frequently contribute to their development. For instance, having been a victim of robbery can increase the likelihood of developing a fear of being robbed.

Additionally, extensive media coverage of thefts and robberies can amplify these fears. Observing others’ experiences or hearing about theft incidents can make such events seem more prevalent and personally threatening, fostering the development of kleptophobia.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on whether the fear is of being stolen from or of stealing from others.

• If you fear being robbed, you may adopt protective behaviors such as securing valuables before visitors arrive, maintaining wariness around strangers, avoiding solitary walks especially at night, obsessively reviewing contracts, refusing to lend money even to close friends, or avoiding crowded places. You might also invest in additional home security measures like extra locks or alarm systems.
• If you fear stealing from others, you may become excessively honest and cautious, double-checking change, declining loans, avoiding taking the last portion of food, and steering clear of situations that could tempt theft, such as handling money or social events. This fear may extend to cheating, prompting strict adherence to rules during games or competitions.
• Both forms of kleptophobia can lead to social withdrawal, diminished self-esteem, depression, and heightened anxiety. Individuals may develop social phobia or agoraphobia due to fear of risky situations, often accompanied by feelings of shame and worthlessness.

Treatment

Effective treatment for kleptophobia mirrors that of other phobias, with exposure therapy—especially systematic desensitization—being highly effective. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals challenge negative thoughts about theft and develop healthier coping mechanisms. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage anxiety symptoms associated with the phobia.

Explore more on related topics:

• Conditions A-Z
• Phobias
• Types of Phobias

Sources: Verywell Mind relies on reputable, peer-reviewed research to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness in its content. For further details on our editorial standards, visit our editorial process page.

1. Samra CK, Abdijadid S. Specific Phobia. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing.
2. Chiang KJ, Chen TH, Hsieh HT, Tsai JC, Ou KL, Chou KR. One-year follow-up of the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral group therapy for patients’ depression: A randomized, single-blinded, controlled study. ScientificWorldJournal. 2015;2015:373149. doi:10.1155/2015/373149

Written by Lisa Fritscher
Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer and editor passionate about mental health and phobia-related topics.

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