Cyber Victimization Among Adolescents: Examining the Role of Routine Activity Theory

By : Sheema Aleem, Divya Kalia

Page No: 223-232

Abstract
Using data from 200 high school students, age 16-18 years, we examined the associations between components of routine activity theory and vulnerability to cyber victimization. In particular, we focused on whether engaging in certain online activities increased one’s ‘target suitability’ as a potential victim and also, how parental supervision helped increase or decrease such ‘suitability’ online so as for one to fall prey to cyber victimization, as hypothesized in the RAT. The results showed that victims and non-victims differed only on the components of target suitability and parental supervision. The present research successfully provides support for the applicability of the routine activity theory in studying the phenomenon of cyber victimization across males and females. Additionally, questions are raised about revamping the Routine Activity Theory in light of the ever increasing technological advancements and awareness of cybercrimes.