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Hunting in the digital jungle: Exploring cyberstalking with higher order moderation in situational action theory

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  • Kabiri, Saeed

Abstract

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of Situational Action Theory (SAT) in understanding cyberstalking behavior. Using a random sampling method, data were collected from 454 students and analyzed through SmartPLS version 4.1 to assess the theoretical propositions. The findings indicate that the key components of SAT—personal morality, self-control, situational morality, and deterrence—are significantly associated with cyberstalking behavior. Additionally, crime propensity was found to moderate the relationship between criminogenic exposure and cyberstalking. Moreover, personal morality emerged as a higher-order moderator, influencing the moderating role of self-control in the relationships between situational morality and cyberstalking, as well as deterrence and cyberstalking. These results provide valuable insights into the complex interactions between individual characteristics and situational factors in the context of cyberstalking, contributing to the ongoing discourse on its theoretical and practical implications.

Suggested Citation

  • Kabiri, Saeed, 2025. "Hunting in the digital jungle: Exploring cyberstalking with higher order moderation in situational action theory," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 98(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jcjust:v:98:y:2025:i:c:s0047235225000492
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2025.102400
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Cho, Sujung & Rustu, Deryol, 2020. "Examining the impacts of low self-control and online lifestyles on cyberbullying perpetration among Korean adolescents: Using parallel process latent growth curve modeling," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 117(C).
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