Choice Theory and Digital Crime

Choice Theory and Digital Crime

Denise Shaffer

July 25 2014

CIS170

Strayer University

Choice Theory and Digital Crime

        There are several different theories that could be used to describe those who commit computer crimes.  I am going to summarize Choice Theory and why I think it is most relevant to computer crimes.   The Choice Theory basically in a nut shell says that a person will choose to commit a crime even after weighing the positive and negative outcomes of doing so. To this person they see a quick opportunity to make money or cause a disruption and no matter what the consequence will still choose to offend.  There are other types of crimes that could be related to this theory as well such as theft, burglary and robbery.  When a person commits these crimes they too have thought about the consequences and continued on with it anyway.  They know that robbing someone and stealing other’s property is wrong but it doesn’t matter to them.  While other theories such as the strain theory could apply in some cases, it would not explain the fact that someone will still commit a crime even though it is obviously so wrong and will not get them anywhere.

        When talking about digital crime I think that this theory is appropriate as being the most relevant.  White collar criminals are generally well educated and are committed to learning their craft. They are usually not confrontational and will most likely prefer a behind the scenes role almost daring someone to catch on to them.  They will think over and over again about not only the methods they will use but how to do the most damage in a short period of time.  They are smart enough to know that they will probably get caught, and when they do they will face federal charges.  But to them it does not matter.  The thrill is sometimes just as rewarding to them as the final outcome.