Psychologist criticized for not returning shopping carts

A doctor on TikTok is receiving criticism from millions of viewers for confessing that she does not return her shopping cart after a trip to the store. However, she explains that this is to ensure the safety of her children.

After revealing a shocking admission on TikTok, Dr. Leslie Dobson, a forensic psychologist, has sparked widespread discussion and outrage.

On May 31, Dr. Dobson posted a video in which she shared that she chooses not to take her shopping carts back to the return station after grocery shopping, explaining that she doesn’t want to leave her children unattended in the car.

“Despite receiving judgement, she refused to return her shopping cart. She explained that she couldn’t leave her children alone in the car while she returned the cart after loading her groceries and getting her children into the car. As a result, she told anyone giving her a disapproving look to mind their own business.”

@drlesliedobson #groceryshopping #shoppingcart #traderjoes #protectourchildren #protectourkids #educational #groceries #singlemom #drleslie ♬ original sound – Dr. Leslie

Currently, Dr. Dobson’s video has accumulated over 11 million views and continues to receive criticism for her decision to not return her shopping cart and instead leaving it in the parking lot.

One viewer stated, “In my opinion, the shopping cart is the ultimate indicator of a person’s character. I make a point to bring my baby with me even when returning the cart.”

After recently moving to America, I’ve noticed that there are shopping cart return stations scattered all over the parking lot, which means they are never more than 20 seconds away. Despite this convenience, one person pointed out that some still can’t be bothered to return their shopping carts.

Additionally, many more viewers mentioned the widely known ‘shopping cart theory’ which serves as a moral evaluation of an individual’s civic responsibility based on their decision to either return their cart to the designated area or leave it in the parking lot.

Despite the criticism, Dr. Dobson remains unfazed. In response to numerous comments, the psychologist wrote a reply reiterating her desire for women to trust their intuition and feel empowered to prioritize their safety. She also stressed the importance of ignoring judgment and avoiding unnecessary risks, as she has personally witnessed the devastating consequences of not doing so. Ultimately, she expressed her hope that others would never have to experience such destruction in their own lives.

In a subsequent video, she reiterated her position and stated that 265 children were abducted in parking lots in 2023.

“Returning your shopping cart as a single mom makes you a prime target for predators who may be watching and waiting to grab you. In fact, in several states, it is against the law to leave your car running and walk away,”she warned.

@drlesliedobson ♬ original sound – Dr. Leslie

Despite her plea for viewers to consider the safety of a parking lot before returning their carts, her statistics failed to convince them.

A viewer wrote to Dr Leslie, stating that the response did not slap and that it is not difficult to return the cart. They also mentioned that it is very rude to not do so.

“According to another mother, the rest of us are able to return the cart somehow.”

Dr. Dobson responded to this comment by stating, “I have heard some of the most horrific stories from others. It is important to trust your intuition rather than the opinions of others. I sincerely hope that you never have to endure the pain that I have witnessed.”

In addition, she also asserted that she had asked ‘To Catch a Predator’s’ Chris Hansen if he would return his shopping cart. According to her, the renowned TV host responded by saying he “wouldn’t return it”in another video recorded at CrimeCon.

@drlesliedobson @Chris Hansen @CrimeCon @Killer Bee Tactical #shoppingcart #drleslie #staysafe #takedown #forensicpsychology ♬ original sound – Dr. Leslie

According to Dr. Dobson’s arguments, it is true that certain states have laws against idling cars for extended periods of time and leaving children and pets unattended in vehicles. Additionally, a non-profit organization called Kids and Car Safety has reported an “all-time high”of 265 children who were allegedly abducted during car thefts.

Despite receiving numerous rebuttals, Dr. Dobson’s comments continue to be met with criticisms from viewers who firmly believe that “the time and energy spent defending your position could have been better used to return your cart.”