What should you do if you catch your child trying to steal
Many parents question their own abilities and wonder where they’ve gone wrong with their child when theft is involved.
Have you caught your child using your credit card for online gaming, stealing money from your wallet without your permission, or even stealing jewellery or other items from your home?
The very thought that your child could be a bandit in the making is enough for any parent to be concerned. A child may steal for a variety of reasons, including social acceptance, attention, or a desire for an item that they know their parents will not buy them.
Talking to your child about stealing is critical because it can help you understand their motivations and get them the treatment they require.
What motivates children to steal?
To blend in: Peer pressure is at the root of much of what we see in children, and wanting the latest gadget or new clothes can push them to go to any length to acquire what they want.
To get people’s attention: Even bad attention can appear to be preferable to no attention at all. When you find your money has gone missing and all eyes are on your child – whether they admit it or lie – it could be a scream for help.
Dangerous behaviour: It’s possible that your child wants the money for something they shouldn’t have. Alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes are all expensive, and they can’t simply ask you for money because it would prompt uncomfortable and difficult questions, as well as lies to cover up what they truly want the money for.
Too shy or nervous to ask outright: Condoms, emergency contraception, pregnancy kits, treatments for rashes in sensitive areas. Sometimes older children steal because they are too humiliated to see a clinic or GP and they need to purchase these items. Asking you for money and risking all the questions just adds to their concerns.
Just for the excitement of it: It’s sometimes more fun to know they’re doing something wrong – and getting away with it!
Assisting your child in managing their behaviour
If you discover that your child is stealing, inform them right away. Remind them that their behaviour is inappropriate and punish them appropriately. When things have calmed down, have a dialogue to find out why they stole in the first place.
It is critical to remain calm and not take things personally. Your child may be attempting to resolve a short-term issue that is troubling them and may require assistance and support.
