Shoplifting in Midlands foodstores

Wilkins, Nora S. (1971). Shoplifting in Midlands foodstores. University of Birmingham. M.Soc.Sc.

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Abstract

SHOPLIFTERS possess characteristics which distinguish them criminologically from other thieves. More women than men are convicted, the reconviction rate is low, and the offenders have a higher average age and come from more diverse socio-economic back grounds.

SHOPLIFTING has been investigated from psychiatric and sociological standpoints. It is frequently associated with a stress situation in an otherwise law-abiding individual. He may
then disregard the criminality of his act for the sake of its therapeutic effect. It can be carried out successfully without the support of a criminal subculture, but that support may be essential if the offender is to continue once discovered.

RESEARCH to date is concerned mainly with the convicted shoplifter - but many who are apprehended are never convicted, since this depends primarily on the readiness of the store to instigate proceedings against them. Although few stores keep reliable records about those they apprehend, one firm made 382 such records available for analysis. From this a descriptive report was made, and a comparison drawn between those apprehended and those convicted. Additionally, since the gravity of the offence in terms of amount stolen was known, a further comparison was made between the sentences imposed by the eleven magistrates' courts in the areas concerned.

A SUMMARY of the research findings is given in Chapter 7.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Soc.Sc.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Soc.Sc.

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