The Significance of Depression in the Mechanism of ‘Compulsive’ Shoplifting

Abstract

The paper describes a case of a compulsive shoplifter who was treated successfully by behaviour therapy. The main objective of treatment was to increase time spent on self-rewarding activities where the patient was able to fulfil her need for excitement, challenge and purpose, while simultaneously reducing her ‘unacceptable’ activities (shoplifting, excessive housework). A theoretical model of compulsive shoplifting is presented and discussed. According to the model, low self-esteem provided the starting point for a chain of developments in which feelings of frustration, exploitation, resentment and lack of self-fulfilment became communicated indirectly through shoplifting activity.