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Why do some people feel the need to steal? This need seems to overpower any fear of being caught and going to jail. So, what drives a person to commit such a crime?

I believe there are different reasons why people steal. For some, stealing is a means of survival. Unfortunately, people lose their jobs and end up without any income, meanwhile they still need to eat and keep a roof over their heads - especially if they have a family. No matter how much they try, they can't get a job so what else are they to do? The desperation becomes too great for some so they turn to stealing. Then, there are others who would rather steal than work for their money. Whether they are too lazy to work or just don't want to take the time to learn an honest trade, they prefer to take their chances with the law. Some even hope to get caught - every thing's paid for in jail like their meals and their colored television, so why not?

Young kids usually start stealing out of boredom or because they're dared by their peers. Stealing means being "cool" or being accepted by the friends they hang out with. Some of them seem to get a rush from the danger of being caught. Others need to steal to support their drug habits. Their addiction forces them to get the money anyway they can, no matter what the consequences.

Whether it's shoplifting, car-jacking, or robbing a bank, people have their own reasons to steal. It may be out of desperation or just plain selfishness, but stealing is wrong no matter how you look at it. It's too bad more of our tax dollars couldn't be spent on ways to help people who need financial aid or spent on more programs to help keep our youth off the streets. Then, who knows, maybe there would be less people with a reason to steal.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Brooks.
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