I don't think clark would have stuck around even if he didn't have secret identity...I mean,what would be the point..Who wants to get arrested anyways..I mean,you would lose your freedom.Clark was a lovable rascal in a sense.The whole robin hood business.
But you are right.Clark is too selfish.Besides,clark wanted to do the right and be amongst people.He wanted to get into trouble and keep himself together/alive.You know the whole dreams speech.