•  
  •  
 

Abstract

In accordance with a similar growth in information technology, computer hacking has become a pervasive issue as a form of crime worldwide in recent years. Self-control theory and social bonding theory have frequently been employed to explain various types of crimes, but rarely to explore computer hacking. Drawing from Gottfredson and Hirschi’s (1990) self-control theory and Hirschi’s (1969) social bonding theory, the purpose of this study is to empirically examine the suitability of these two theories in explaining juvenile computer hacking offenses. The self-report survey data utilized for the present study was derived from middle school and high school students in the United States, Russia, Spain, Venezuela, France, Hungary, Germany, and Poland. The current study hypothesizes that hackers’ self-control and social bonding are significant predictors for the commission of computer hacking offenses. The findings of this study provide strong support for Gottfredson and Hirschi’s (1990) self-control theory. In addition, the findings can be interpreted as partially supportive of Hirschi’s (1969) social bonding theory. The authors conclude with a discussion on policy implications.

Note on the Author(s)

Sinchul Back is a doctoral student in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs at Florida International University. He is also a researcher at Boston University’s Center for Cybercrime Investigation & Cybersecurity. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Leadership and Political Science from Northeastern University and holds a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Bridgewater State University. His research interests include cybercrime, cybersecurity, digital forensic investigation, and terrorism.

Sadhika Soor is a doctoral student in the Department of Criminal Justice at Florida International University. She also works as a research assistant on a grant awarded to her university. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Criminology from the University of Ottawa, and holds a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Florida International University. Her research interests include cybercrime, juvenile justice, and racial and economic bias in legal processes.

Jennifer LaPrade is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at The University of Texas at Dallas. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Political Science and master’s degree in Political Science with an emphasis on Constitutional Law from The University of Texas at Dallas. Her research interests include cybercrime, policing, and law and courts.

Share

COinS