What many people don't realize is that theft and shoplifting are impulses that are often associated with an impulse control disorder.  As a licensed psychotherapist, I have been treating people with these disorders for many years.  What I have come to find out is that gaining some basic skills in an educational format also seems to help.  Such programs include theft classes online.  While theft is at it greatest in larger metropolitan cities such as New York or Chicago, it is still a major issue even in small towns.  Parents, teachers and law enforcement should deeply consider alternative education as a diversion method.