What is one common reason defendants steal vehicles, particularly associated with thrill-seeking behavior?

Joy riding is a term used to describe the act of stealing a vehicle for the purpose of driving it around, often for the excitement or thrill of the experience rather than for financial gain or other motives. This behavior is commonly associated with younger individuals who are looking for an adrenaline rush or a way to demonstrate their rebelliousness. The act typically involves taking the vehicle without the owner's permission and using it temporarily, which aligns with the concept of thrill-seeking as a motivating factor.

The lifestyle choices and social contexts in which joy riding occurs often highlight the impulsive and adventurous nature of those involved. In contrast, behaviors associated with shoplifting, carjacking, and grand theft focus more on economic motivations or predatory actions rather than the pursuit of excitement. Thus, joy riding stands out as a clear example of thrill-seeking behavior among these options.