Kleptomania primarily involves:

Prepare for the DSM-5 for ASWB Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question having hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

Kleptomania is classified as an impulse control disorder characterized by a recurrent and intense urge to steal items that are not needed for personal use or their monetary value. This behavior is often driven by feelings of tension or arousal before the theft, followed by relief or gratification during or after the act. The critical aspect of kleptomania is that the person does not steal for financial gain or to express anger, but rather due to an overwhelming impulse that they find difficult to control.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of kleptomania. A need for validation through theft implies a motivation based on external approval, which does not align with the underlying psychological mechanisms of kleptomania. Donating goods reflects altruism, not the compulsive behavior associated with stealing. Additionally, the idea of only stealing items of high value contradicts the nature of kleptomania, as the items taken are often insignificant or of little value to the person experiencing the disorder.

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