NCJ Number
242093
Journal
Security Journal Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2013 Pages: 80-105
Date Published
February 2013
Length
26 pages
Annotation
Building on the classic work of Weaver and Carroll, the purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of 42 expert and novice shoplifters using verbal protocol.
Abstract
The retail environment has been identified as having great capacity for crime reduction through improved design. Building on the classic work of Weaver and Carroll, the purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of 42 expert and novice shoplifters using verbal protocol. The study objectives were to examine shoplifter perceptions, investigate deterrents and facilitators to crime, and explore the relationship between security techniques and design features. Findings indicated significant differences between expert and novice shoplifters in regard to the proper techniques and design practices. Other results identified specific security and design techniques as both deterrents and facilitators to shoplifting. Overall, the study illustrates the potential of the physical environment to deter shoplifting, especially in the case of novice shoplifters, and proposes solutions that marry security and good design. (Published Abstract)