When I was like 10 years old, my mom’s boyfriend was living with us. One day I ate all of his ice cream, and knowing that he would be upset I went to the store to replace it. However, I didn’t have any money, so I put 2 cartons in my bag. Well, as I approached the checkout to exit the store, the manager asked me what was in my bag, I tried to talk my way out of it, but I was busted. I was very scared, he went into the office to get a Polaroid camera, to take my picture and hang it on the wall. Luckily, the camera was out of film, and he let me go without calling the cops. After that experience, I was too terrified to steal anything ever again, and its a good lesson learned, don’t steal unless you are willing to face the consequences. I avoided that particular supermarket for about 5 years, because I was too embarassed to go in.
I think the only way for someone to stop stealing is to get caught. Otherwise you will never learn your lesson and continue to do it.
I now work in a supermarket, and am very good at spotting shoplifters.
Some people get a thrill from stealing, sort of a natural high. This is very dangerous, because the consequences can be embarassing and lead to arrest, conviction and having a record can prevent you from getting certain jobs.
Think about it, before stealing. Is that $10 item worth a $500 fine? Is that pair of sunglasses worth spending time in jail. (Petit larceny can carry a jail sentence.)