CONTEMPORARY CRIME TRENDS AND THE ETIOLOGY OF CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR IN THE CONTEXT OF GLOBAL CRISES
Keywords:
contemporary crime, etiology, global crises, COVID-19, cybercrime, transnational crimeAbstract
Purpose:
This paper aims to explore how global crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic and the processes of globalization, have influenced the structure, frequency, and nature of contemporary forms of crime. The focus is on identifying etiological factors behind the rising trends in specific types of crime, such as domestic violence, cybercrime, and transnational organized crime.
Design/Methods/Approach:
The study applies a qualitative methodology rooted in criminological theory, supported by analysis of secondary data and international reports. A multidisciplinary perspective is adopted to contextualize the societal, economic, and psychological triggers of modern criminal behavior.
Findings:
The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a marked increase in domestic violence, largely due to imposed isolation, financial hardship, and stress. Parallel to this, cybercrime spiked globally, exploiting digital dependency during lockdowns. Additionally, globalization facilitated the expansion of transnational criminal networks that exploit legal loopholes and operate beyond national jurisdictions.
Originality/Value:
This paper offers a timely and comprehensive analysis of how macro-social stressors contribute to criminal behavior, reinforcing the importance of responsive, adaptive, and socially-aware criminal justice policies. The findings serve legal scholars, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to modernize prevention strategies and develop more holistic models of criminal justice in times of systemic disruption.
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