by Mona Gallagher

Created on: May 05, 2007   Last Updated: May 16, 2007

Reason, motivation and objects of desire combine to make stealing a highly explored topic. One answer will not suffice for all but we can examine some of the many reasons that lead people to steal.

Professional thief: He steals for profit, knows his job and gets it done. Maybe there is thrill involved, but not necessarily. He might be employed by others.

Greed/Money and profit seekers: This person uses fraudulent methods and preys on as many people as possible. The Internet and web are very useful to this criminal.

The Thrill seeker: He is all about adrenaline. He might plan the job, or he might follow opportunity and impulse. The greater the risk of discovery, the more he enjoys the steal.

The Insecure person: He may steal money as a means to boost his self worth. Stealing is secondary to what the object can do for him. He may deliberately steal another's mans wife to prove his worthiness.

The Poor person: He steals to obtain things that will meet his immediate need. This might include shelter or food for his family. Sometimes this type of motivation for stealing can lead to a criminal lifestyle.

The Kleptomaniac: Kleptomania is a rare condition where useless things are stolen. The person may feel increased tension before stealing and increased pleasure afterward. He may not steal for several years at a time. This is impulse stealing with no planning.

When a child steals, it might be because he doesn't understand the full meaning of the action or he may act on impulse without thinking of the consequences. Whatever the reason, this is the time to teach him about what his actions do to others and the consequences of his actions.

The above profiles are my own opinions and should not be taken as advice or research, with the exception of the profile on kleptomania. I did research that one.

http://www.uihealthcare.com/topics/mentalemotion alhealth/ment3151.html

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