Admit it. At some point in our childhood, we turned up with things that didn't belong to us. Apparently, it's normal. We were in the age of innocence and our intention was not to steal. Sadly, the instinctive reaction of many parents about the stealing behavior of their children is to give them a long sermon and nip their careers as petty thieves in the bud.

Many parents are trigger-happy about the moral judgment of deciding that a child is stealing. Fact is, parents can't apply adult standards of morality, self-control, and discipline to the actions of their young children. This article provides information on why children steal and how to prevent stealing in children.

Why do young children steal?

There are many reasons for a child's stealing behavior. Parents who do nothing when their children turn up with something that doesn't belong to them may be reinforcing this behavior. Also, children learn by the actions of their parents. The stealing behavior may be reinforced when children see their parents taking things (for example, office supplies) that don't belong to them. This may teach children that stealing is OK in some instances.

Children want many things, and if they don't have the money to spend, they may steal things that they want. Some children also steal to look good in the eyes of their peers. Some steal because others are doing it anyway; what they really want is to be accepted by a particular peer group. Stealing can also be a sign of behavioral or emotional problems.

What should parents do to prevent stealing behavior in children?

There are several things that you can do to stop the onset of stealing behavior in your children. Explain to them why stealing is not right. Make sure that they know it's wrong. Teach them about ownership. Explain that all of us have a right to our own property, and taking something that doesn't belong to us is wrong. Use examples like, "Would you feel good if your brother wanted your favorite toy and just took it?"

Teach your children the right ways of getting the things they want. For example, tell them that people ask for things if they want them and they save up money to get the things they want. You also have to model appropriate behavior. Set a very good example for your children by showing them that you ask before you borrow things and by being honest and open. Reward and praise them for honest behavior. Finally, develop a good relationship with your children.