Kleptomania is characterized by which of the following?

Kleptomania is defined by the recurrent inability to resist the urge to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary gain. Individuals with kleptomania experience a strong compulsion to steal, often taking things that may have little value or significance to them. The act of stealing is not driven by necessity; rather, it is driven by a psychological urge or tension that, when acted upon, results in relief or gratification. This desire is distinct from typical theft, which is often motivated by need, financial circumstances, or other rational reasons.

The other options presented do not align with the diagnostic criteria for kleptomania. Recurrent aggressive outbursts are more indicative of a different disorder, while fear of criticism does not relate to the compulsive behavior surrounding stealing. Additionally, stealing out of necessity implies a practical rationale for theft that contradicts the essence of kleptomania, where the driving force is a compulsion rather than a need. Therefore, the correct understanding of kleptomania is accurately captured in the characterization of stealing objects without need.