"Kleptomania – the inability to resist the impulse to steal objects, not for personal use or monetary gain – is currently classified in psychiatric nomenclature as an impulse control disorder." (Durst, R. (2001), p185)

 

There are strong links between kleptomania and foraging. Foraging is the trespassing on private land in order to take produce that isn't yours. Kleptomania is the psychological desire to relieve a tension and gain a thrill, which can lead to the taking and stealing of objects from shops. Although an unlikely match the two sit side by side. Foraging is a light-hearted, innocent hobby, whereas Kleptomania is a psychological disorder which on occasion has to be treated medically. Shoplifters are not necessarily kleptomaniacs, but occasionally use this disorder as an excuse to defend themselves.

 

"The Theft Act (1968) considers theft to be the illegal taking of another person's property without their permission with the intent to permanently deprive the owner" (Winder, B. & Banyward, P. (2012), pp202-203). This can be applied to both kleptomania and foraging.

 

"Kleptomania in itself is not a crime; rather, it is a mental disorder that involves compulsive stealing. The compulsive element of this disorder relates to an inability to resist the urge or impulse to steal, even if it is against the person's will." (Winder, B. & Banyward, P. (2012), p197)