In my many years in the loss prevention industry I have often heard that shoplifting is an addiction for some people. I never really put much stock in that until lately. I have had more than a few shoplifters tell me that they shoplift for the thrill, not the merchandise. They don’t care what they steal, as long as they get something, and don’t get caught.
The National Association For Shoplifting Prevention has conducted many studies on the subject, and has some really great information available on their site. Their studies conclude that shoplifting addiction can occur when a chemical reaction, similar to a “high”, is experienced when a shoplifter “gets away with it”.
Here’s the thing. If you have been in loss prevention for any amount of time, you know your regular “customers”. These are the folks that, no matter how many times you catch them and prosecute them, keep coming back and stealing from you. It makes one wonder why they just keep coming.
I am no expert in psychiatry, and I have not conducted any scientific studies myself. However, many who have done so have concluded, and are convinced, that shoplifting is addictive.
While I won’t deny that shoplifting could be addicting, just like any drug, it does not excuse the crime. And, while I am all for getting people addicted to shoplifting the proper help, I am against using this as an excuse to relieve them of their responsibility for their actions.
What do you think? Is shoplifting an addiction? Should shoplifters be treated as criminals or as patients? Leave a comment to weigh in and let us know where you stand on this issue.
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