Criminological Study of the Impact of Social Networks on Patterns of Recidivism and Risky Behaviors
Keywords:
Recidivism, Criminology, Risky Behaviors, Social NetworksAbstract
The rapid expansion of social networks has fundamentally transformed patterns of human interaction and lifestyles, creating new contexts for the emergence of risky behaviors. In this regard, the impact of these platforms on the process of recidivism and the reproduction of delinquency has become a significant concern in contemporary criminology. The present study adopts a criminological approach to examine the role of social networks in reinforcing or facilitating patterns of recidivism and risky behaviors. Accordingly, the central research question is: what is the criminological impact of social networks on patterns of recidivism and risky behaviors? The study was conducted using a library-based (documentary) method, with data collected through note-taking techniques, and analyzed using a descriptive-analytical approach. The findings indicate that social networks can contribute to an increased likelihood of recidivism by facilitating communication among deviant individuals, normalizing risky behaviors, and disseminating criminal patterns. Furthermore, widespread access and limited supervision within these platforms create conditions conducive to the formation of informal criminal networks and the reinforcement of criminal identities. Therefore, the adoption of preventive policies, the promotion of media literacy, and effective monitoring of content published on social networks can play a significant role in reducing risky behaviors and recidivism.
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