The Expansion of Anomie in Cyberspace among Children and Adolescents from a Criminological Perspective

Abstract

In today’s world, digital technologies and cyberspace have become an inseparable part of human life, particularly for children and adolescents. The purpose of this article is to examine the causes of the expansion of anomie in cyberspace, the consequences of this phenomenon from a criminological perspective for children and adolescents, and to propose strategies to address it. With the increasing use of the Internet and social networks, significant changes have emerged in social interactions, values, and societal norms. One of the most important challenges resulting from these transformations is the expansion of anomie in cyberspace. Anomie, a concept first introduced by Émile Durkheim, refers to a condition in which social norms are weakened or disintegrated, and individuals experience confusion in distinguishing right from wrong behavior. From the perspective of cyber criminology, due to the absence of strict regulations, the possibility of user anonymity, and the uncontrolled proliferation of information, children and adolescents are exposed to various forms of deviant behavior, misleading information, and contradictory values, thereby creating a favorable environment for the development of criminal behavior. This situation leads to consequences such as the increase of cyberbullying, digital fraud, identity theft, online harassment, dissemination of inappropriate content, decline in real-life social interactions, heightened anxiety and depression, and a reduction in the sense of social belonging, all of which are considered outcomes of digital anomie. Moreover, many adolescents, through imitation of social media influencers, adopt values that are inconsistent with the realities of their social lives. Among the most important strategies to confront this phenomenon are the enhancement of media literacy, increased supervision by parents and educators, the enactment of stringent regulations for social media platforms, and the production of appropriate and alternative content. Through the implementation of these measures, the negative effects of anomie in cyberspace can be mitigated, and a safer and healthier environment for the development of future generations can be provided.