As a former thief and now a counselor for a theft class I am well-aware of the reasons people shoplift. Research from my students shows that less than one out of ten steal because they need the item shoplifted.
More than four in five of my students (82%) enjoy the rush they get from shoplifting. They like the thrill of getting away with it and feeling like they beat the system. It makes them feel "special". Many students will speak openly about daydreaming of shoplifting scenarios.
Like many thrills, the excitement from shoplifting can be habit forming. However, if you are stealing, you need to find another way to get your kicks.
One place to start is a hobby. Having a hobby to focus on will keep you from thinking about shoplifting. A number of my students have taken up ceramics. While not necessarily thrilling, the pride of accomplishment, of creating something from nothing, has really helped them kick their urge to steal. They feel good about themselves and have greater internal satisfaction. Gardening would be another good hobby.
If you absolutely must have lots of excitement and stimulation, take up a sporting hobby. Rock climbing, hiking, spelunking, rafting, skiing and snowboarding are all high-thrill sports that will help keep the need to steal at bay.
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