Cyberterrorism among College Intimates Experiencing Technology-Facilitated Abuse: Critical Extensions of Johnson's Typology

• In Event: Critical Criminology and Cybercrime

Abstract

Although there has been much growth in the area of intimate partner violence (IPV) research conducted within the last 25 years, there are still some areas that are underexplored such as technology-facilitated intimate partner abuse, also referred to as cyber intimate partner abuse. In particular, the risk factors and theoretical frameworks used to explain these processes are underdeveloped, especially for specific kinds of abuse like intimate partner cyberterrorism. Utilizing Johnson’s typology as a conceptual guide, the purpose of this project is to examine the nature and extent of intimate partner cyberterrorism centering on coercive controlling violence (i.e., degradation, isolation, intimidation, threats) among young adult partners in the past year (n=557). By conducting this research, we can also learn more about risk factors (e.g., relationship history, relationship empathy, mental health challenges, substance abuse, social support, sexual attitudes) for this form of violence, which develops understanding relating to modern day power-and-control dynamics as situated in patriarchal environments. As such, the study advances the body of IPV research with its focus on technologically-facilitated intimate partner abuse and moves theory forward with attention to catalysts that drive digital coercive control perpetration.

Authors

• Alison J. Marganski, Le Moyne College

• Lisa A. Melander, Kansas State University