Cognitive Factors, Contingencies, and Cybercrime in a Cross-National Context: Evidence from Israel and the United States

• In Event: Offenders and Victims of Computer-Assisted Crimes

Abstract

Although recently, more criminological studies have explored various aspects of cybercrime, so far, no research has investigated predictors of involvement in cybercrime in a cross-national context. Our study adds to the literature on correlates of cybercrime by examining the role of cognitive factors (e.g., Thoughtfully Reflective Decision Making) in involvement in cybercrime using survey data collected from students in three universities in two countries, Israel and the United States. It also explores whether various factors such as the sociocultural context and demographic characteristics may serve as contingencies in this process. The results provide some support for our hypotheses, demonstrate the importance of employing a cross-national approach, and generally confirm that more attention should be paid to various moderating influences when studying cognitive predictors of cybercrime involvement.

Authors

• Olena Antonaccio, University of Miami

• Eric Louderback, University of Miami

• Tamar Berenblum, Hebrew University

• David Maimon, University of Maryland