Most people know that stealing is an immoral act, but unfortunately, there are still people who are used to it. If you have recently been a victim of theft and are having trouble understanding the reasons behind the thief's actions, try reading this article. In general, there are several types and levels of theft, starting from stealing money that fell on the road, to committing fraud to steal millions of rupiah. To understand the reasons behind someone's theft, it's best to try to learn the motives first.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Identifying a Thief's Pathological Reason
Step 1. Recognize the symptoms of kleptomania
Kleptomania is an impulse control disorder in which the sufferer has the urge to constantly steal things he doesn't need or are worthless. People with the disorder may not need the stolen item or even have the money to buy it themselves. However, he will still commit theft because he likes the sensation that arises because of it.
- People with this disease do not steal to meet their personal needs. Generally, the theft is also not planned or carried out with the help of another person. Instead, their actions are based on spontaneous impulses and are generally carried out in public places, such as at the store or at the homes of relatives and friends.
- If you know someone who can't seem to stop stealing, try asking them to see a doctor. Don't worry, kleptomania can be treated with therapy and drugs.
- You could say, “I know, if you took something from the shop. I know you have money, so it seems you did the theft because you really wanted to, right? I'm worried about what you did and don't want you to get into trouble after this. If you feel the need to consult an expert, I am ready to accompany you."
Step 2. Identify the theft associated with addiction
A person who has kleptomania will generally only steal because they want to do it, without considering the value of the item stolen. In contrast, another form of pathological theft that is commonly accompanied by financial hardship is addiction-related theft.
- A person with an addiction or gambling problem may steal money from relatives, friends, and co-workers to fund the negative habit. Lying is also one of the components that are closely attached to this type of theft. If confronted directly, the perpetrator of theft will generally deny the basic problem he has.
- Other symptoms of addiction include making new friends and abandoning existing friendships, having trouble with the law, difficulty functioning at work and school, and difficulty maintaining relationships.
- If you suspect someone you know is committing theft to fulfill an addiction, seek professional help immediately! Previously, you could approach the person and mention their behavior: “You've been behaving a little differently lately, haven't you. You seem withdrawn from your friends and always running out of money. I'm just worried you have a drug addiction problem."
- If the person denies using illegal drugs, try developing an intervention plan. For example, you can ask a relative or close friend to reach out to the person and explain your concern. In particular, you can use this step as a “bridge” to lead the person to the right treatment.
Step 3. Understand that pathological theft is not generally aimed at attacking the victim personally
In other words, a thief who has a medical disorder doesn't do that to hurt anyone. Instead, the theft is carried out to fulfill emotional and basic needs. People who steal for pathological reasons also usually feel guilty, but it is difficult to break the habit without the intervention of others.
Method 2 of 3: Exploring a Thief's Nonpathological Motives
Step 1. Understand that some people steal to fulfill their basic needs
Desperation is a common reason behind many thefts. For example, these people may not have steady jobs and incomes, or have difficulty providing for their families. As a result, they will steal to feed their children or provide adequate housing for their families.
Step 2. Understand that theft can occur as a result of social pressure
Associating with the wrong people can also cultivate a person's habit of stealing. In such cases, the value of the stolen goods is not as important as the thrill and tension they feel when they steal and potentially go unnoticed. This type of theft is very common among teenagers who often succumb to social pressure from their peers. In other words, they often do it to look cool or acceptable in certain social groups.
Step 3. Realize that thieves generally have low empathy
People who have difficulty “seeing the bigger picture” may steal spontaneously, without realizing the impact their actions have on others. This lack of empathy is not pathological. That is, the action is taken without thinking, and may be changed if the person is confronted or asked to reflect on his or her actions.
Step 4. Realize that some people steal to fill a gaping emotional hole in their heart
In some cases, people who have experienced loss or trauma are tempted to take other people's property to close their wounds and fulfill their emotional needs. For example, they may steal to fill emotional holes left by their parents or caregivers. Or, a child may steal to fill the void after losing an object that is important to him or her. Unfortunately, stealing will not solve the underlying problem they have. That's why, they will continue to do so.
Step 5. Understand that some people steal because they have the opportunity
Unfortunately, some thefts occur simply because nothing prevents the thief from doing so. In some cases, theft occurs because a person feels satisfied by taking things that do not belong to him. Or, the thief may view his actions as a challenge or a form of greed.
Method 3 of 3: Moving On After Being A Theft Victim
Step 1. Engage authority figures
If your personal belongings are stolen, the first logical step to take is to report the theft to the nearest police station. When reporting, provide as much detail as possible so they can identify the stolen property as well as the suspected culprit. Do this as soon as possible to increase your chances of catching the thief and getting your belongings back.
If your identity is stolen, there are specific steps you should follow to resolve the issue and protect yourself in the future. If you live in the United States, try visiting the Federal Trade Commission website at IdentityTheft.gov for more information
Step 2. Immediately repair the security system in your home
If you have recently experienced theft of personal belongings or property, immediately fix the security system in your home! First of all, repair any kind of damage that occurs. Then, enlist the help of a trusted security officer to analyze the security system in your home, and identify various factors that make your home vulnerable to burglars, such as window frames and door hinges. Then, remind the neighbors to check the security system in their house!
If possible, develop an escape plan in case the theft happens again in your home. In particular, plan strategies for securing valuables and hiding children in case your home is burglarized again
Step 3. Try to stick to your normal routine
Living a normal life after experiencing a theft is not easy, especially since your mind is bound to be filled with fear as a result of the traumatic event. However, don't let that fear paralyze you!
Step 4. Take good care of yourself
Don't feel sorry for yourself so much that you have to neglect your health and well-being! Being a victim of theft is prone to triggering stress. Therefore, make sure the time and quality of your sleep every night is well maintained. Also, eat a healthy and balanced diet and exercise to improve your emotional well-being and strength. If your body and mind are well cared for, surely the negative feelings you experience will be easier to overcome.
Step 5. Rely on your support system
Hold on to those closest to you, such as neighbors, relatives, friends, and members of the local community, after being a victim of theft. Tell them honestly if their help is needed to make you feel more safe and comfortable in the area. Don't hesitate to get a sense of security and comfort from your closest friends and relatives who are always ready to support you.
For example, ask your neighbor: “Would you mind watching my house on the weekends? It's because everyone in the house has to go out of town on Fridays and Saturdays, even though we just got stolen, right?"
Tips
- Be wary of the people you hang out with. Be careful, associating with the wrong people can make your belongings disappear without a trace!
- Treat yourself well. Most burglars choose victims considering the benefits they might get, and have no intention of making a personal attack on the intended homeowner!
