For many young people, shoplifting is a quest for thrills and “street cred,” driven by a brain wired for immediate rewards during their teenage years.This psychological drive, coupled with developing impulse control and a yearning for social acceptance, can lead them to glamorize stealing as a risky achievement, according to psychology experts.
The Allure of the ‘Dare’
Teenage brains are especially sensitive to experiences that feel good or fun. This heightened sensitivity nudges young people toward activities that offer immediate gratification. Dr. Vivien Yang, a child psychologist, explains that this developmental stage makes youths favor pursuits that create positive feelings.
Dr. John Shepherd Lim, a wellbeing officer, notes that teenagers often have limited impulse control and moral reasoning. As they may not fully grasp the reality of their actions, shoplifting can become an appealing, almost glamorous, display of achievement. They are also navigating complex questions of identity and belonging,making them vulnerable to peer influence and the desire for acceptance.
“Youths spend the bulk of their time with friends, and in trying to fit in, may see shoplifting as a dare or as a way to grow in status,” says Stephanie Chan of Annabelle Psychology. The immediate thrill or gaining social approval, or “street cred,” outweighs the abstract concept of legal trouble.
Did you know?– Shoplifting is frequently enough fueled by the teenage brain’s reward system, seeking immediate gratification. This can lead to risky behavior, especially when combined with peer pressure and a desire for social acceptance.
Social Media fuels Risky Behavior
The digital landscape, especially platforms like TikTok, has introduced new influences. In 2021, a viral TikTok challenge where participants boasted about school thefts reached Singapore, leading to the investigation of two teens. This phenomenon highlights how the pursuit of online validation can encourage risk-taking.
Chan adds that youths may prioritize gaining attention and popularity over the illegality of their actions. The need for online validation can push them to take risks they might or else avoid. This blend of social pressure and the desire for digital notoriety shapes their perception of risky activities.
Pro tip:– Parents and educators should monitor social media use and discuss the potential consequences of online challenges. Open interaction about responsible behavior can help prevent risky actions.
Did you know? Shoplifting can be perceived by some youths as a dare or a means to increase their social standing among peers.
Why do some youths shoplift? Shoplifting can be an attempt to seek excitement, gain social approval, and achieve a sense of status, especially during adolescence when impulse control and moral reasoning are still developing.
What role does social media play? Social media platforms can amplify risky behaviors through viral challenges and the pursuit of online validation, perhaps encouraging youths to prioritize attention over the consequences of their actions.
How does peer influence affect young people? Susceptibility to peer influence is high during teenage years as youths grapple with identity and belonging, sometimes leading them to value short-term social gains over long-term repercussions.
Reader question:– What strategies can communities implement to deter shoplifting among young people? share your thoughts on prevention and intervention methods in the comments.
