Kleptophobia

Kleptophobia is the persistent, abnormal fear of thieves or of being robbed. Closely associated with this phobia is the kleptophobic individual's fear of stealing and/or becoming a thief themselves.

Also known as Harpaxophobia, this word derives from the Greek "klepto", meaning to steal and "phobos" meaning fear.

What Causes Kleptophobia?

As with all phobias, the person coping with Kleptophobia has experienced a real life trauma at some time. That experience is then associated with thieves and of being robbed. Perhaps the person was robbed in the past. Perhaps this individual has struggled financially and has been tempted, or indeed has, stolen something. Maybe the kleptophobic person lives in an area where incidents of robbery are high.

Whatever the cause, the kleptophobic person can experience anxiety and emotional turmoil that is disruptive of their daily functioning.

What Are the Symptoms of Kleptophobia?

The symptoms of Kleptophobia vary with each person. Some people, when confronted with their fear, may feel uncomfortable, nauseated or begin to sweat. At the opposite end of the spectrum, there are other people who are so severely impacted by this phobia, that they experience anxiety and/or panic attacks.

Other symptoms of Kleptophobia can include:

• A Dry Mouth
• Muscle Tension
• Gasping or Shortness of Breath
• Trembling
• Rapid Heartbeat
• Feeling Out of Control
• Feeling Trapped and Unable to Escape
• Feeling of Impending Disaster

How Is Kleptophobia Diagnosed?

The vast majority of cases of Kleptophobia are self-diagnosed. The person realizes that their fear of thieves and of being robbed is unrealistic and that their fear has compromised their ability to function.

The kleptophobic person may then discuss their fears with their doctor. Rarely will the doctor diagnosis Kleptophobia. More routinely, the doctor, after ruling out any physical reasons for the phobia, will refer this individual to a mental health professional for additional assessment and evaluation.

How Is Kleptophobia Treated?

When the fear of thieves and of being robbed becomes so overwhelming as to disrupt an individual's daily functioning, there are a number of treatment options available to treat Kleptophobia. These can include:

• Talking to the primary physician who can refer the individual to a therapist who specializes in the treatment of phobias.
• Traditional "talk" therapy that helps the person learn to identify and control their phobia.
• Self-help Techniques.
• Support groups with other people coping with this phobia.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Desensitization Therapy.
• Relaxation Techniques.
• In the most severe cases of Kleptophobia, anti-anxiety medication can be prescribed.

Kleptophobia is the intense, irrational fear of thieves and of being robbed. Sometimes that fear can become so paralyzing as to completely disrupt, even stop, a person's ability to function. Unchecked, Kleptophobia can become a debilitating condition that can interfere with every aspect of a person's life.