A Read the statements and write true (T) or false (F). Go back to Reading 1 and look for the answers you are unsure of.

Different Types of Shoplifters

Terrence Shulman used to shoplift. Now he helps shoplifters stop stealing. He divides shoplifters into six types.

Compulsive Shoplifters: 85%

For these people, shoplifting is a compulsion. They can't stop themselves. These shoplifters often have other compulsive behaviors such as overeating, shopping, drug use, or gambling. They often don't take care of themselves. Usually they steal items that are inexpensive.Then they give these things to others as gifts . If they are caught, they are very emotional they might cry and feel shame.

Professionals-People Who Steal For Profit: 2%

Professional shoplifters steal expensive items. They often take many items at the same time. Many of them use special tools. If the police catch them, they will try to run away. If they can't escape, they show no emotion. They are cool, calm, and collected. They never feel guilty.

The Poor-People Who Steal Because They Have No Money: 5%

These shoplifters usually steal necessities like food, baby diapers, toiletries, or children's clothing. If they are caught, they will say that they are sorry. However, they will also explain that they have no money. They may be angry at society because they are poor. They believe shoplifting is necessary to support themselves and their families.

Thrill Seekers-People Who Steal for Excitement: 5%

These shoplifters will often steal in groups. Many teenagers belong to this type. They steal because it's exciting.Teenagers steal clothes, CDs, makeup, and computer games. They often feel afraid if the police catch them.

Drug Addicts: 2%

Like professionals, they take expensive items. Then they sell these things to get money to buy drugs. They are usually less careful than the professionals. If they are caught, they will try to run away.

Kleptomaniacs-Those Who Steal for No Reason: 1%

Kleptomaniacs are impulsive. They don't think before they act. They are also often careless. They will often take items they don't need and can't use. For example, they might steal shoes that don't fit. If they are caught, they will usually admit they are kleptomaniacs. They do not feel guilty and they are not ashamed. They will often give excuses like, "I don't know why I took it because I don't even need it."

A Read the statements and write true (T) or false (F). Go back to Reading 1 and look for the answers you are unsure of.

1. All shoplifters are the same.

2. Shoplifters are usually poor.

3. Professional shoplifters don't feel guilty.

4. Poor people steal expensive items.

5. Kleptomaniacs are often careless.

6. Professionals may use tools.

Young Shoplifters

Is shoplifting a serious problem?

Store owners lose almost $10 billion a year to shoplifters. As a result, they must charge higher prices. So, you and your family are paying for the things shoplifters take. There is no typical shoplifter-people of every sex, age, race, and socioeconomic background steal from stores. But a large percentage of shoplifters are teenagers. About 25 percent of all the people who get caught shoplifting are between the ages of 13 and 17. Why do teens shoplift? Experts at Shoplifters Anonymous say that teens shoplift because they

a. think the stores don't need the money ;

b. think they won't get caught;

c. can't stop themselves when they want something; d. feel pressure from shoplifting friends;

e. are angry, frustrated, or sad.

What should I do if my friend shoplifts?

Talk to your friend, but don't judge. Explain that you are worried. Help him or her find help.There are many programs for shoplifting such as telephone hot lines, programs in hospitals, and community health services. If your friend won't stop shoplifting, don't shop with him or her. If the police catch your friend, they will think that you are a shoplifter, too. Although this "guilt by association" may not be fair, it happens. Unfortunately, shoplifting can easily become an addiction. Some shoplifters say that they feel high when they steal. Because they feel good , they keep shoplifting. It's a habit that's hard to stop.

Date: 2016-01-03; view: 2093