In some countries they have any easy remedy to stop thieves from repeating their thieving ways – they cut off their hands. That certainly is barbaric and I would not recommend any civilized country adopt such extreme measures.
As a counselor for both in class and online stop theft classes my students and I often discuss how to best prevent them from stealing again. This article will address a few ways my students and I have discussed about stopping theft behavior.
Idle Hands Are a Bad Thing
One of the best ways to stop compulsive and repetitive shoplifting is to adopt another hobby. Not only is shoplifting illegal, but it can be dangerous to your health. One of my students was shoplifting candy from a local convenience store when the shop owner brought out a sawed off shotgun and leveled it at their heads.
While this may have been an extreme scenario, the fact is you should not be stealing anything ever! I also advise my students with drinking problems to start a new hobby. Playing a musical instrument, learning to cook or gardening are good, safe hobbies that will keep your mind and your hands occupied!
Don’t Let Your Mind Wander
Most of your thoughts can be controlled. You are consciously aware of the majority of your thoughts. If you find your mind thinking about shoplifting or stealing you must consciously stop them.
One of my students came up with a way to control her thoughts of theft behavior. Each time she thinks of stealing she remembers buying her first iPod a few years ago. She had wanted an iPod for a couple of years and finally had gotten a job in a florist shop. Her first paycheck bought the iPod she had been dreaming about.
I mention this story because it was a feeling of pride when she went into the Apple Store to purchase the item she had worked for. Working for something makes it more valuable and helps give a real sense of self-worth.
Don’t Hang Around Bad Influences
This is pretty simple really – if you don’t want to steal, don’t hang out with people who steal. It is a fact that people who don’t steal do not enjoy the stress of being around those who do!
One of my students, Tim, an unemployed construction worker, had gotten into the habit of stealing things from The Dollar Store. He and his friends would load their pockets with junk, most of which found its way into trash cans shortly after the theft. Tim decided to not hang out with his “best friends” anymore because he did not want a criminal record and the judge in his sentencing warned him that one more petty theft and he would get locked up.
Find God in your Life
This is not just some hokey “Come to Jesus” statement. Whether you were raised in a religious household or not, the message behind all religions is clear and positive. Whether you are Christian, Jewish or Muslim, stealing is a sin. The Bible has two main themes: love God, and love your neighbor as you would yourself.
I encourage each of you to attend a few different religious services. In addition to hearing the positive message, you are surrounded by positive, God-loving individuals that can help you in your recovery.
Treat Others Like You Want Them to Treat You
If you keep this as your central theme, it should help deter you from going into someone’s home and robbing them. It will keep you from robbing the local convenience store. You certainly do not want to be stolen from and neither does anyone else.
Remember that theft is not only a sin, but can get you in serious trouble. If you or someone you know and care about has a theft problem I encourage you to seek help immediately. If you prefer to maintain complete anonymity there also are online stop theft classes.