NCJ Number
139981
Date Published
1991
Length
175 pages
Annotation
This volume reviews and analyzes empirical research and theoretical studies of shoplifting, with emphasis on the characteristics and motives of offenders and the efforts of store personnel and the criminal justice system to address the problem.
Abstract
The discussion notes the areas in which consensus exists in the research and identify knowledge gaps and areas of controversy. It concludes that shoplifters come from all age groups, use many strategies, and are likely to be with others at the time of the offense. Contrary to a popular stereotype, males generally have higher rates of shoplifting activity than females. In addition, social class has a slight to moderate inverse relationship to shoplifting behavior. Research on the causes of shoplifting also suggests that various social conditions and pressures make some individuals more vulnerable to deviance and that shoplifting will be the type of deviance chosen when a vulnerable individual is exposed to social influences and personal experiences that make shoplifting attractive. Retailers face a continuing and frustrating challenge in trying to address shoplifting. They are often reluctant to give security their highest priority due to its costs and concerns that sales will decline in a store that emphasizes security. Tables, chapter notes, subject and name indexes, and 278 references