Dr. Leslie Dobson’s Controversial Shopping Cart Video
Dr. Leslie Dobson, a clinical and forensic psychologist in California, never aimed to create controversy when she shared her opinion about returning shopping carts. However, her 16-second TikTok video has since gone viral.
The Viral Video
In the video, Dobson declared, “I’m not returning my shopping cart and you can judge me all you want. I’m not getting my groceries into my car, getting my children into the car, and then leaving them to return the cart. So, if you’re going to give me a dirty look, f— off.”
Safety Concerns
Dobson explained to Today.com that she made the video to address safety concerns. She noted, “Predators watch our patterns and routines, and I wanted to give people permission to not return their carts if their intuition tells them they aren’t safe.”
Rising Abductions
In 2023, Kids and Car Safety reported an “all-time high” of 265 children abducted during car thefts.
Public Reaction
While Dobson intended her clip as a public service announcement, many saw it as an example of the “shopping cart theory,” which suggests a person’s moral character can be determined by whether they return their shopping cart.
Opinions on the Shopping Cart Theory
- One commenter stated, “I believe in the shopping cart theory. Whether the return was across the lot or right next to you, the theory holds true.”
- Another shared, “As a mom of three young kids, I unload groceries, return the cart with the kids, and then load them in. Simple.”
- A third added, “Even with a baby, I bring her with me to return the cart. It’s the ultimate test of character.”
- Others questioned, “How did your kids get to the cart safely? Did you leave them in the car alone to get the cart?”
Conclusion
While Dobson raises valid safety concerns, there might be other ways to return carts while keeping children safe. What do you think? Share your thoughts on Facebook.
