Measuring shoplifting by systematic observation: A replication study

A random sample of customers entering a small department store in Bedford were systematically observed from when they entered the store until when they left it. The results were compared with those obtained in a similar study in Peterborough. Nine out of 486 customers (1.9%) were observed to shoplift in Peterborough, and six out of 502 (1.2%) in Bedford. Males were more likely to shoplift than females. Most shoplifters purchased goods, possibly to allay suspicion. Generally, shoplifters stole small, low-cost items and looked around carefully to check that nobody was watching them before placing the items in pockets or bags. It is concluded that a great deal can be learned about offending through direct, systematic observation.