The Silent Struggles of Shoplifting Addiction

On a daily basis, people walk in and out of the malls and supermarkets casually, without anyone noticing the secret burden a shoplifting addict is silently carrying around. It’s the easy to write off anyone who steals as a mere thief, deliberately out to hurt or take from others. Although theft has become a common crime, there is more to shoplifting sprees than what meets the eye.

Firstly, the National Association for Shoplifters Anonymous says over twenty-seven million Americans struggle with the problem of compulsive stealing. No store, from the plushest of malls to the humblest of corner stores, is beyond the reach of those with shoplifting addiction.

Despite strict security measures being taken by retailers all over the country, the numbers surrounding shoplifting just seem to climb higher and higher. What is really going on? What are the correlations here that may help retailers take measures to prevent incidents of theft while at the same time offering resources and support to individuals in need?

What to Know about Shoplifting Addiction

Shoplifting addiction, or kleptomania, is a behavioral compulsion where a person feels the overwhelming urge to steal things, whether or not they need or value them. The condition has more to do with being psychologically compelled to steal than getting the stolen object. In simple words, a shoplifter just cannot help themselves, even when they have lots of money to pay for these things.

More recent studies suggest that more than half of all shoplifters have some kind of addictive disorder. This correlation can help retailers devise strategies for the prevention of theft. Likewise, it can shape programs and treatment meant to support those who struggle with the underlying issues that cause kleptomania.

To make matters worse, research has shown there is no ‘typical’ profile for someone who struggles with shoplifting addiction; it cuts across all demographics and socioeconomic statuses. There have been recorded cases of Hollywood movie stars who have been diagnosed with this condition despite having six-figure salaries.

By addressing the root causes of this addictive behavior, we have better ways of combating loss prevention. In order to do that, we must first start by unraveling the mind of a person who feels uncontrollable urges to steal.

What Does A Shoplifting Addict Feel Like They Benefit from Stealing?

1. Though illegal, shoplifting offers an adrenaline surge which gives a feeling of excitement to those addicted.
2. Some individuals with latent mental health issues at times self-medicate through shoplifting and later find themselves in a pool of addiction.
3. Shoplifting addiction can lead to some kind of financial gain for the person because merchandise can be resold or traded for cash.
4. A person with an addiction to shoplifting can feel powerful and in control due to successfully stealing merchandise from stores.
5. Since addictions such as substance abuse and gambling possess a social stigma, some people who are addicted to shoplifting can camouflage their addiction and maintain their social image since their compulsion to steal may remain undetected by society.

The act of stealing itself may give a feeling of relief, but it is only temporary pleasure quickly overtaken by feelings of guilt, self-loathing, or remorse. Psychological factors that have been linked to this problem include anxiety, depression, or trauma.

That is why raising awareness and destigmatizing the search for help are important initial steps toward change. Empathy for others struggling with kleptomania is crucial while at the same time providing resources for support will help bring positive societal change.

Top Triggers of Addiction to Stealing

1. Easy access to high-end merchandise in various retail outlets in the US is one of the major triggering elements for shoplifting addiction in the consumer.
2. Studies have also shown that individuals with some underlying psychological problem, such as anxiety or depression, may take shoplifting as an outlet, which again becomes another reason for this addictive behavior.
3. Peer pressure and social norms also play a major role in leading any person toward compulsive stealing, especially among teenagers, who are more prone to external influence.
4. Personal economic stressors eventually drive the individual to commit an act of thievery for survival, thereby adding to the statistics of shoplifting addiction within American society.

This silent struggle of addictive shoplifting behavior not only affects the addicts emotionally but also brings consequences for businesses through financial losses from their theft. The act of stealing provides only a momentary escape from deeper emotional pain and distress. However, professional help through counseling can uncover root causes and provide healthier coping mechanisms that lead to long-term healing.

If you feel that you would like to talk to someone about this issue, contact our offices today. We can create an appointment for you with one of the therapists in our practice. Begin your healing journey in a safe, confidential space.