Exploring Cyber Deviant Behaviors in Young Adults: A Thematic Content Analysis

Abstract

The present study aimed to explore the cyber deviant behaviors in young adults of Pakistan. For this purpose, a qualitative approach was used using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The data was collected from eleven young adults aged 21 to 33 (M = 26.27, SD = 5.13), including victims or perpetrators, five experts dealing with cybercrimes and two focus group discussions with young adults. The participants were recruited using a criterion sampling strategy. Three open-ended questions were asked from each participant. All the interviews and focus groups were audiotaped, ensuring confidentiality of the information obtained. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the interview transcripts. The results revealed nine main themes of cyber deviant behaviors in young adults, which included: 1) unauthorized access, 2) online identity deception, 3) cyber harassment and blackmailing, 4) cyber financial fraud, 5) cyber defamation and negative campaigning, 6) cyber misinformation and manipulation, 7) cyber dating and sexting behavior, 8) cyber addiction, and 9) misuse of AI in digital space. The thematic structure of the data highlighted multiple forms of cyber deviant behaviors, which are prevalent in young adults of Pakistan. Understanding these behaviors is critical for developing preventative strategies and promoting healthier online interactions. So, the study contributes to the field of forensic psychology to explore the cyber deviant behaviors in detail. The findings will be helpful in the development and evolution of programs to control the deviant behaviors in cyberspace in young adults.