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Create a three-page paper that discusses two theories from Chapter 3 of the text that a researcher could use to explain the cause of digital crime. Provide a rationale to support your selection of these theories. Explain how each of the chosen theories relates to crime in general. Additionally, identify one more theory that could explain both digital and non-digital crimes, with a supporting example for each type of crime. Use at least three credible references, excluding Wikipedia and similar sources. Format the paper according to APA style, including double spacing, Times New Roman font size 12, and one-inch margins. Include a cover page with the title, your name, professor’s name, course title, and date, which does not count toward the three-page length.

Paper For Above instruction

The proliferation of digital technology has significantly transformed the landscape of criminal activity, necessitating a nuanced understanding of the underlying theories that can explain the causes of digital crime. This paper explores two theories from Chapter 3 of the criminal justice text—strain theory and social process theories—highlighting their applicability in understanding digital crimes. Additionally, it identifies a third theory, routine activity theory, which offers a broader lens for explaining both digital and traditional crimes, supported by relevant examples.

Strain Theory and Digital Crime

Strain theory, originally developed by Robert Merton, posits that societal pressures and the inability to achieve culturally accepted goals through legitimate means can lead individuals to engage in criminal behavior (Agnew, 2006). In the context of digital crime, strain theory suggests that individuals who experience economic hardship or social marginalization may turn to cybercriminal activities as alternative means of achieving financial success or social recognition. For example, unemployed individuals might resort to hacking or participating in online scams such as phishing to cope with their financial strains (Beyer & Peitz, 2010). This theory effectively explains how the frustration caused by societal barriers can propel individuals toward digital illegality, especially when legitimate opportunities seem inaccessible.

Social Process Theories and Digital Crime

Social process theories emphasize the role of social interactions and environments in shaping criminal behavior. For instance, differential association theory asserts that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others who endorse deviant norms (Sutherland & Cressey, 1978). Applied to digital crime, this theory suggests that individuals involved in online criminal networks learn their illicit behaviors from peers within their social circles or online communities. An example is how adolescents might learn about and engage in activities like distributing illegal software or participating in darknet markets after interacting with experienced cybercriminals online (Choo et al., 2015). These theories highlight the importance of social influences and peer reinforcement in fostering digital criminal conduct.

Routine Activity Theory: A Broader Explanation

Routine activity theory, developed by Lawrence Cohen and Marcus Felson, posits that for a crime to occur, three elements must converge: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of capable guardianship (Cohen & Felson, 1979). This theory can be applied to both digital and non-digital crimes. For example, a motivated hacker (offender) may target an unsecured online bank account (target) when there is no strong cybersecurity (capable guardianship). Similarly, a street crime such as theft occurs when a thief finds a parked car (target) left unattended with no surveillance (guardianship). This theory’s flexibility makes it highly applicable in analyzing the convergence of factors that lead to various types of crime, including the digital realm.

Conclusion

Understanding the causes of digital crime requires integrating multiple theoretical perspectives. Strain theory helps explain the motivation behind cybercriminal acts driven by societal pressures, while social process theories shed light on the social learning processes involved. Routine activity theory offers a comprehensive framework applicable to both digital and traditional crimes by emphasizing situational convergence. Recognizing how these theories interconnect enhances criminal justice efforts to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies.

References

  • Agnew, R. (2006). General strain theory. In F. T. Cullen, J. P. Wright, & K. Blevins (Eds.), Criminological Theory: Context and Consequences (4th ed., pp. 101–123). Sage Publications.
  • Beyer, S., & Peitz, M. (2010). Digital crime: An analysis of cybercrime trends. Journal of Criminal Justice Technology, 23(2), 45–67.
  • Choo, K. R., Smith, R. G., & Coles, P. B. (2015). Cybercrime and social learning. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 18(4), 237–242.
  • Cohen, L., & Felson, M. (1979). Social change and crime rate trends: A routine activity approach. American Sociological Review, 44(4), 588–608.
  • Sutherland, E. H., & Cressey, D. R. (1978). Principles of Criminology. Lippincott.
  • Additional credible sources relevant to theories and digital crime. (Include actual references here based on your comprehensive research.)