Criminal Deterrence Theory

It is rather clear how these two theories are similar with regards to using computers to commit crimes. Both of these theories suggest that computers make it easier for an individual to commit a crime because they are detached from the physical components of a social situation. However, they certainly have fundamental differences as well. More specifically, criminal deterrence theory explains how the actual act of committing a crime may be conducted easier by using a computer. Alternatively, social control theory explains how it may be easier for an individual to rationalize committing a crime by using a computer rather than doing physically in person. One example of a current event that relates to these two theories is the security breach …show more content…
In a research paper published by Png & Wang in 2007, using event study analysis found that computer crime is reduced by 36% in a 15-day window surrounding government enforcement against computer hacks. This shows that deterrence is a clear factor in an individual decided to commit a computer crime. This is due to the fact that there is much less obstacles needed to be deterred, and when an increase in deterrence is presented to the criminal, there is a direct relationship with the decrease in crime committee (Png & Wang, 11). Another empirical analysis conducted on computer crime found that within an hour of instant messaging with a non-stranger, harassment was 6% more likely to occur and an astounding increase of almost 80% chance of a non-stranger engaging in sexual harassment (783). Social control theory could explain this statistic, because the social norms of the situation are removed and the harasser does not have to does not have to confront the victim face to face. In several situations, the harassment may not have even occurred if it was not