Despite the stereotype that women are the primary criminals when it comes to shoplifting, research is beginning to show that men do it too, maybe even more often then women. A 2008 study showed that men are actually the more likely gender to shoplift. While women shoplift because of an enchantment with the product they're taking, men shoplift to feel like superheros in their favorite videogames. They feel like they're outwitting the store's staff and security personel.
Kleptomania, or compulsive shoplifting, was deemed a mental illness in the 19th century. The first known cases date back to the 17th century, however, and are most likely the reason we have the sexist stereotype we have today towards kleptomaniacs. Women were viewed as the lesser sex, and therefore only presumed capeable of lesser crimes, whereas men were more likely to be assumed guilty in more voilent crime like murder.
This author knows alot about the subject she's talking about. Throughout the article she talks about the extensive research she did to come to her conclusion, which was that no one really knows what compels some people to shoplift. This knowledge of the subject tells that reader that the author knows what she's talking about, and that most of her information is true. The authority the research gives her makes her very persuasive as a writer.
"Sticky Fingers, Male and Female"
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/23/opinion/sunday/equal-opportunity-crime-shoplifting-men-do-it-too.html?ref=opinion
i never thought about shoplifting from the gender point of view...i guess its reasonable that both do it
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