Why shoplift something you can afford?

Not every shoplifter is doing it out of economic necessity, some thieves taking despite having a high income, status, and a steady career. 

After ex-Green Party MP Golriz Ghahraman pleaded guilty to four shoplifting charges today, the question of why an affluent person would commit retail theft is again being raised.

Dr Dougal Sutherland, a clinical psychologist with Umbrella Wellbeing, told Kerre Woodham that psychological pressures and stress can be behind the decision to shoplift. 

He said that when people come under pressure they can come up with what, in hindsight, are quite irrational ways of getting out of a situation via self-sabotage.

LISTEN ABOVE

Why shoplift something you can afford? 
Not every shoplifter is doing it out of economic necessity, some thieves taking despite having a high income, status, and a steady career.  
After ex-Green Party MP Golriz Ghahraman pleaded guilty to four shoplifting charges today, the question of why an affluent person would commit retail theft is again being raised. 
Dr Dougal Sutherland, a clinical psychologist with Umbrella Wellbeing, told Kerre Woodham that psychological pressures and stress can be behind the decision to shoplift.  
He said that when people come under pressure they can come up with what, in hindsight, are quite irrational ways of getting out of a situation via self-sabotage. 
LISTEN ABOVE

Join Kerre Woodham one of New Zealand’s best loved personalities as she dishes up a bold, sharp and energetic show Monday to Friday 9am-12md on Newstalk ZB. News, opinion, analysis, lifestyle and entertainment – we’ve got your morning listening covered.

Advertisement