Cyberharassment Victimization on Three Continents: An Integrative Approach

Area of Science:

• Criminology
• Cyberpsychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Cyberharassment is a growing concern among adolescents and young adults.
• Existing research often examines risk factors in isolation, limiting a comprehensive understanding.
• There is a need to integrate theoretical frameworks to explain cyberharassment victimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and apply an integrative model of cyberharassment victimization.
• To analyze risk factors for cyberharassment using Routine Activity Theory (RAT), General Theory of Crime (GTC), and personal resources.
• To examine the protective role of a sense of mastery against cyberharassment.

Main Methods:

• A cross-national survey of 4816 respondents aged 15-25 from the U.S., Finland, Spain, and South Korea.
• Logistic regression models were employed to analyze cyberharassment victimization.
• An integrative model combining criminological theories and personal resources was applied.

Main Results:

• Routine Activity Theory (RAT)-related factors were positively associated with cyberharassment victimization.
• Low self-control showed a positive association with cyberharassment victimization in the U.S., Finland, and Spain.
• A sense of mastery was negatively associated with cyberharassment victimization in the U.S., Finland, and South Korea.

Conclusions:

• Integrating criminological theories and protective factors provides a robust understanding of cyberharassment dynamics.
• Identifying protective factors like a sense of mastery is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
• Cross-national data highlights variations in risk and protective factors, informing targeted policy interventions.