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View Full Version : Is my 8 year old a Kleptomaniac or is there more?


Skylan00
Apr 4, 2009, 03:23 PM
Over he last several months, my 8 yr.old son has been compulsively stealing from friends, school, stores, his parents, and other peoples homes. A few weeks ago he stole an IPOD and the police were involved. He was grounded, lost privileges at school, and is doing community service type jobs at school. We had a meeting with him, his principle, and the police. The Officer explained to him what the consequences of stealing are.
Last night he spent the night at a friends. An hour after he got home, we received a call from the other boys parents. $175.00 was missing. My son admitted to taking the money, and it was returned.
He has stolen other items (fireworks, candy, toys, vitamins, things from the teachers desk)
But money seems to be his primary target. He is obsessed with money. It seems to be the only thing he thinks about.
Since about the time he was 2, he has hoarded things. I am always finding stashes of food, candy, money, and other small items.
When I questioned him today as to why he stole the money, he told me he didn't think about what he was doing, he just did it. Almost like an impulsive behavior.
I believe my son suffers from depression as well as anger issues. He becomes verbally and physically violent over the slightest things. He has a difficult time following directions and concentrating at school and at home.
I am at a loss. We are putting him in counseling ASAP.
Can someone please give me some idea of what is going on here?

Mother In Tears:(

artlady
Apr 4, 2009, 03:48 PM
I am sorry for your situation.
Looking on line I see that his behaviors coincide with impulse control,conduct disorder and O.C.D.

He needs a good evaluation by a highly trained specialist
Making a correct diagnosis is vital to his success.

Arm yourself with knowledge so you can ask pertinent questions and make certain they don't just throw an easy diagnosis at you.
When cases are complicated(such as this) I think the ADHD card gets overplayed and children get medicated without the benefit of good behavioral therapy.

I am not an expert,just a Mom. Only an opinion.