The Surprising Psychology Behind Shoplifting
by
David Polsky on May. 31, 2018
Summary: If only 5 percent of shoplifting is related to poverty, what compels the other 95 percent? For many people, it is not because of financial need, but because of a psychological need. Stealing can be an involuntary coping mechanism to deal with personal conflicts and psychological maladies.
The Surprising Psychology Behind Shoplifting
If only 5 percent of shoplifting is related to poverty, what compels the other 95 percent? For many people, it is not because of financial need, but because of a psychological need. Stealing can be an involuntary coping mechanism to deal with personal conflicts and psychological maladies.
Most often, it is a response to a stressful situation or a way to deal with depression, kleptomania, anxiety, or even boredom. Studies show that people can become addicted to shoplifting, the same way they become addicted to drugs and alcohol. Stealing can release dopamine in the brain, which can create a need to recreate that feeling. For people with these issues, stealing is not a rational decision and a fine or jail time will not be beneficial.
For those who suffer with this psychological compulsion for shoplifting, alternative reformation methods are needed to deal with the situation. There are more constructive ways than incarceration to handle this problem. Many people simply need to be taught better coping skills that do not involve theft. This helps by not only keeping individuals out of our already overcrowded jails, but by giving those who need and deserve it an opportunity to make a real and healthy chance in their lives.
At the Law Offices of David Polsky, we understand that there might be a deeper reason that could have caused you to act in a way you wouldn’t normally. Shoplifting charges don’t have to ruin your life. In most cases, I am able to have the charges conditionally dismissed without any criminal record occurring for a first offense. For subsequent offenses often these charges can be downgraded, and jail time can be avoided.
When you call me, you can feel confident that you will not only get my personalized individual attention, but that you also have my 25 years of experience as a licensed defense attorney to protect and fight for your legal rights. Call the Law Offices of David Polsky today at (973) 686-9787 for a free consultation.