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Hacking And The Social Learning Theory

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favorable or consequential outcomes that are observed. Imitation is more likely to be responsible for the onset of the behavior rather than a continuation of the behavior (Morris & Higgins, 2010). Definitions refer to the influence of factors with one’s having fdefine the appriateness f an act. This involves one’s rationalization, neutralizations, justifications, and excuses toward engaging in a certain behavior. The more someone has learned and approves of definitions favorable to deviance, the more likely they will participate in that behavior (Morris & Higgins, 2010). Hacking and the Social Learning Theory The social learning theory views hackers as individuals who are socialized into breaking rules through peer-association. A majority of hackers are young and learn from their friends in a type of communal environment. Studies show that this behavior takes place in a distinctive socio-cultural context and “communal” structure. Just like social learning takes place in the terrestrial world, it also takes place in the virtual world. Peer association and social learning in the hacking subculture takes place in both the terrestrial and virtual worlds. In the “terrestrial” world, hackers participate in organized conferenes, such as the annual DEFCON hacker gathering, at which knowledge, tools and tales are exchanged. Chapters of the 2600 hackers organization meet weekly in towns and cities across the US. In “virtual” or online settings, peer groups are formed and
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