Parents' Guide to

It Takes a Thief

By Sierra Filucci, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Reformed thieves teach how to be safe (or scared).

TV Discovery Channel Reality TV 2005
It Takes a Thief Poster Image

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What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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What's the Story?

In the unique reality show IT TAKES A THIEF, families from around the country choose to test the weak links in their home security systems. Host Matt Johnston, who started robbing houses when he was a teenager but later turned his life around and became a teacher, watches on video as action man Jon Douglas Rainey, a former house and car thief turned private eye, cases the home and, without warning the family, stages a burglary. Once inside, he ravages the home, aggressively emptying drawers on the floor, rifling through kids' closets, stashing jewelry, credit cards and collectibles into pillowcases, and dashing out the door to his waiting vehicle. Johnston then reviews the video surveillance recordings with the family, showing them their weak spots and assessing their emotional reactions. After an expert security system installation, Rainey tests the house again and usually finds the break-in much more difficult.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Despite its ostensible emphasis on safety and security, It Takes Thief can leave viewers feeling vulnerable. The hosts stress the ease with which burglars can enter your home, potentially putting people and possessions at risk. Younger viewers (and even adults) may not have the perspective needed to understand the difference between real and perceived risk. While the intention of the show is to help people feel empowered to protect their home, the result might instead be to create unnecessary fear. (And then there's the idea that potential thieves might pick up a few tips by watching. ...)

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about real versus perceived danger. What are the crime statistics in your area? Do you know anyone who's been burglarized? What's the emotional impact of being robbed? What's the emotional impact of feeling afraid of being robbed? How much time and energy do kids and parents feel is important to put into keeping possessions safe? How can families feel safe without feeling afraid? Is the show being responsible by demonstrating burglarly methods?

TV Details

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