Teen shoplifting is one of those things that may be difficult to detect. Teenage shoplifting is not limited to the troubled teens with problems. While teen shoplifting can be a sign of a troubled teen, it can also be a problem for teenagers with few problems beyond the typical behavior of a growing teen.

Reasons for teen shoplifting

There are several reasons for teen shoplifting. Some teens do it for reasons of rebellion, and others do it for the thrill. Being able to get away with something can be quite thrilling. Peer pressure is another reason for teenage shoplifting. If their friends are doing it, some teens feel as though they have to as well, in order to fit in. Complex reasons for teen shoplifting include cries for help. A teenager may be in an abusive situation, or feel a great deal of stress or anxiety. Stealing can give them a sense of control over their lives, and give them a sense of euphoria that they do not normally get. Some teenagers steal as a way to draw attention to themselves.

Another reason for teenage shoplifting is a desire for things they cannot afford. Some teens shoplift brand name items so that they can keep up with fads. Others shoplift so that they can buy drugs or alcohol. In these cases, teen shoplifting serves as a sign of a teenage drug or alcohol dependency.

How you can help stop teen shoplifting

If your teenager is caught stealing, it is important for you to react in a way that shows him or her that there are consequences for such behavior without becoming overly emotional or upset with your teenager. If engaged in teen shoplifting, bring your teenager back to the store to return the item and meet with security personnel. Most stores do not prosecute the first time it happens, and most judges (in cases where stores do prosecute) are fairly lenient on first-time offenders. However, teenagers should be made aware, by you, the store and the judge, that the consequences increase with each offense. There is little sympathy and tolerance for repeat teenage shoplifting offenders.

A parent’s response to stealing needs to be tailored to the child’s developmental stage:

• When speaking to a child around age 4, parents shouldn’t use the word “steal” in explaining that taking a candy bar was wrong, We need to teach children not to ‘take something that is not theirs.
• By 6 or 7 years of age, the child could be made to face the store manager. Returning the item and apologizing are appropriate, parents should call the manager in advance to make sure he doesn’t say something like, “That’s OK.” “I hope you’ve learned your lesson,” is much more effective.
• By age 10, parents should add the component of making the child invest time in paying back the victim. A time-limited, helpful task, such as sweeping the parking lot for an hour is appropriate. Parents should not reward the child afterward with payment or a treat.
• With teen shoplifters, parents are advised to examine the child’s motivation. Is he succumbing to peer pressure or trying to cope with familial or environmental pressures.