Knowledge Economy Studies

Economics of Crime and Financial Delinquency among Children and Adolescents: A Comparative Analysis of Causes and Consequences in Physical and Digital Spaces

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Vahid Nekounam 1
Saeideh Fakhri 2

1 Corresponding Author, Associate Professor, Faculty of Theology and Law, Hazrat-e Masoumeh University, Qom, Iran Email: vahid.nekoonam@gmail.com

2 Department of Law, Faculty of Theology and Law, Hazrat-e Masoumeh University, Qom,Iran, Qom, Iran Email: saeedehfaxri@gmail.com

https://doi.org/10.22034/kes.2025.2070251.1077
Abstract
With the expansion of modern technologies and the pervasive influence of digital space in our daily life, financial delinquency among children and adolescents has become a significant social and economic challenge. This phenomenon, occurring in both physical and digital environments, has widespread consequences for  individuals, their families, and society.  This study used a comparative approach, utilizing data from cases recorded in Tehran Juvenile Court, to examine the underlying factors and consequences of financial delinquency and the economics of crime in these two contexts. The findings revealed that multiple factors—including family economic status, parental supervision weaknesses, behavioral disorders, cultural changes, and broad access to digital tools—can contribute to the occurrence of these offenses. In physical environments, the economic and social impacts primarily affect the family and the adolescent’s immediate social surroundings, whereas in the digital space, due to the scale, speed, and anonymity of offenders, the consequences are more complex and, in some cases, cross-border. The results highlighted the necessity for preventive policies, promotion of economic and digital literacy, strong support systems, and improvement of judicial frameworks related to children and adolescents. These insights can assist policymakers and researchers in reducing the financial and social harms associated with juvenile delinquency in the digital era.

Keywords

Economics of crime
financial delinquency
children and adolescents
physical environment
digital environment
juvenile court

Subjects

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Knowledge Economy Studies
Volume 2, Issue 2
October 2025
Pages 105-119

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