Applying Differential Association Theory to Online Hate Groups: A Theoretical Statement (Finnish Journal of Social Research)

Will there be more acts of mass violence as a result of more active online hate organizations, or is this just a moral panic? It is evident that these groupings are dangerous when seen through the lens of criminological theory. Mass shootings will continue to be uncommon, but social media platforms could be a factor in their relative rise. The researcher uses a differential association approach to examine how social media might promote mass murder. After a brief discussion of hate organizations’ online presence, the fundamental ideas of differential association are reviewed, along with how social media may be used to further their influence. After giving an example of how hate organizations are interrelated, the author ends by urging more investigation.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/248392261_Applying_Differential_Association_Theory_to_Online_Hate_Groups_A_Theoretical_Statement