Suicide Attempts in 107 Adolescents and Adults with Kleptomania

Abstract

Suicide attempts in kleptomania have received little investigation. This study examined rates, correlates, and predictors of suicide attempts in kleptomania. A total of 107 adolescent and adult subjects (n = 32 [29.9%] males) with DSM-IV kleptomania were assessed with standard measures of symptom severity, psychiatric comorbidity, and functional impairment. Subjects had high rates of suicide attempts (24.3%). The suicide attempt in 92.3% of those who attempted suicide was attributed specifically to kleptomania. Suicide attempts were associated with current and life-time bipolar disorder (p = .047) and lifetime personality disorder (p = .049). Individuals with kleptomania have high rates of suicide attempts. Bipolar disorder is associated with suicide attempts in individuals with kleptomania and underscores the importance of carefully assessing and monitoring suicidality in patients with kleptomania.

Keywords:

• adolescence
• impulse control disorders
• kleptomania
• suicidality
• suicide attempts

Notes

Note. c Chi Square.

f Fisher's Exact Test.

t Students t-test.

K-SAS = Kleptomania Symptoms Assessment Scale.

SDS = Sheehan Disability Scale.

QoLI = Quality of Life Inventory.

Note. *Controlling for multiple tests, there are no significant findings.

Note. Regression model: F = 4.945, df = 2,93, p = .009. R-Square =.096.