The main objective of treatment was to increase time spent on self-rewarding activities in which the patient could fulfill her need for excitement, challenge and purpose, while simultaneously reducing her unacceptable, compulsive behaviors of shoplifting and excessive housework. A theoretical model of shoplifting is presented and discussed. In this model, low self-esteem provided a starting point for a chain of developments in which feelings of frustration, exploitation, resentment, lack of self-fulfillment, and depression were communicated indirectly through shoplifting. 13 references. (Author abstract modified).