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Matt Haig: 'I was a teen shoplifter. In my foolish ... - Big Issue

Experts recommend addressing the behavior directly without using overly accusatory language. Parents should look past the stolen object to identify the root emotional cause, enforce strict boundaries by making the teenager return the merchandise and apologize, and seek professional behavioral counseling if the shoplifting is compulsive. If you would like to explore this topic further, please

Shoplifting is a crime, even for minors, and the legal repercussions can be severe. Criminal Record: teenshoplyfter

Make the teenager take accountability by returning the items, apologizing directly to the store manager, or paying out of pocket for any unrecoverable merchandise.

Many teens steal for the "rush" rather than the item itself. Matt Haig: 'I was a teen shoplifter

For some teens, shoplifting functions as a cry for help or a manifestation of underlying mental health struggles, such as depression, anxiety, or family trauma.

: Many programs now use restorative justice models , where the offender meets with the victim (often a store manager) to understand the impact of their crime and make amends. Parents should look past the stolen object to

Shoplifting can have lasting impacts on a young person's future:

Many teenagers mistakenly believe that because they are minors, getting caught stealing carries no serious consequences. However, retail theft can leave lasting damages: Consequence Type Specific Impacts

If the behavior is repetitive or accompanied by other signs of acting out, consulting a school counselor or behavioral therapist can help address the core emotional triggers.