A simple parking-lot habit has ignited an outsized debate online. A Los Angeles psychologist and mother of two says she never returns her shopping cart. Her reason has divided viewers.
Leslie Dobson shared her stance in a video that quickly went viral. She explained that once she loads groceries and secures her children, she chooses not to walk the cart back. Her concern, she said, centers on safety. Leaving young children alone in a car, even briefly, makes her uneasy.
As criticism grew, Dobson doubled down. She pointed to fears about parking-lot crime and child abduction. She also raised concerns about leaving a car running, which can violate local laws in some areas. Her message was direct. Trust your instincts. Protect your family first.
Online reaction came fast and fierce. Many commenters argued that returning a cart shows basic courtesy and personal responsibility. Others referenced the viral “shopping cart theory,” which frames the small act as a measure of character. Some parents pushed back, noting they manage to return carts while keeping children close. Others shared stories of illness or disability and said they still make the effort.
Dobson responded calmly. She urged people, especially women, to prioritize safety over judgment. She stressed that intuition matters and that one choice does not define a person.
In the end, the debate reflects something larger. Everyday decisions often carry different weights for different families. What feels minor to one person can feel risky to another. And sometimes, even a shopping cart can spark a much bigger conversation.
