In recent years, people's daily lifestyles and habits have undergone global changes. Individuals have become increasingly connected, dependent, and reliant on the Internet and technology. Consequently, technological development has not only altered various aspects of people's lives and activities but has also changed how society functions. This transformation has revealed both the positive and negative sides of society and individuals, as they transition from the real world into the virtual world in many ways. Indeed, as it paves the way for social behaviors to flourish, it has also evolved into fertile ground for antisocial behavior. Antisocial behavior is generally seen as any conduct that violates social norms and harms society and individuals. However, there is neither a common definition of it nor a consensus on what antisocial behavior is. This uncertainty extends as well to online antisocial behavior that is present on the Internet. Despite the challenges posed by the diversity and evolution of online platforms, addressing and preventing online antisocial behavior remains a crucial task. In this paper, we are trying to define online antisocial behavior. Our approach begins by studying what antisocial behavior is through interdisciplinary literature (psychology, sociology, law). Then, we turned to online antisocial behavior.
using social media, making it the most used internet
platforms. The internet has significantly altered human
Since the dawn of humanity, humans have tended to com- behavior. It has merged the physical and digital worlds,
municate and interact with each other by nature. They influencing our social interactions [7]. Indeed, many
ashave an innate need for connection that drives them to es- pects of our lives have changed, including the way we
tablish and maintain interpersonal relationships through- communicate and interact with each other, how we learn,
out their lives [1]. Individuals form relationships, family, teach, work, entertain, and do business. Furthermore, it
and friends and build communities. Before the rise of has led to changes in individual behaviors [8],
includthe internet, human behavior was predominantly shaped ing antisocial behavior [9]. Antisocial behavior, which
by in-person interactions and the physical world [2]. To is behavior that is contrary to social norms and often
achieve daily activities such as shopping, learning, and involves causing harm or annoyance to others [9], has
playing, individuals are usually required to leave their also found its way to the internet. This late, provides a
homes and do it physically. Nowadays, it has become a platform for the rapid spread of antisocial behavior,
makfact that people are dependent on technologies and the ing it a global issue [9]. In addition, with the increasing
Internet even in their daily lives [3]. Billions of people number of people using the Internet, the number of those
use the internet daily as an integral part of their lives [
Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
Despite these challenges, defining online antisocial be- psychology, and law. As with many terms present in havior is vital. diferent domains, it is challenging to provide a general
The remainder of the paper is organized as follows: definition for antisocial behavior. Therefore, in an efort Section 2 presents the methodology followed in this work. to understand this concept, we explore various dictionarSection 3 provides a discussion of the existing definition ies, books, and papers. Before delving into the definition of antisocial behavior through interdisciplinary literature. of "antisocial behavior", we will start with the definitions Section 4 presents a discussion of what online antisocial of the two terms "antisocial" and "behavior". We begin by behavior is in computer science literature, as well as its presenting and discussing the literal definition of each forms. Finally, Section 5 concludes this review paper and term, followed by the scientific one." presents perspectives for future work 3.1. Behavior
by diferent dictionaries. The Oxford Dictionary 1 defines
This review paper has the objective of understanding it as the manner in which an individual behaves or
con"What is Online Antisocial Behavior?" and providing a ducts themselves, particularly in interactions with others
definition for it. We used Google Scholar and Semantic [13]. This definition encompasses both individual actions
Scholar as search engines to uncover current evidence and interactions with others. The Macmillan dictionary2
and enhance our understanding of the topic. We wanted [14] is more restrictive, focusing on how someone acts.
to be able to search for scientific articles quickly and The Longman Dictionary3 [15] The Longman Dictionary
easily on multiple platforms, including the Web of Sci- is similar but includes animal behavior. The
Merriamence and Scopus databases. Furthermore, Google was Webster dictionary4 provides two definitions. The first
employed to search for information on the topic from on- one is close to the one provided by the Oxford dictionary.
line dictionaries and various organizations. In our paper, It focuses on individual behavior, describing it as the
manwe focused solely on English-language papers, but we did ner in which someone conducts themselves or behaves.
not limit our search by article type, publication date, or It addresses the observable actions and demeanor of an
discipline. In addition to research papers, we also used in- individual, emphasizing personal conduct and behavior
formation and material from relevant organizations and as key components of this definition [
Antisocial behavior (ASB) is a multidisciplinary concept, 2https://www.macmillandictionary.com/dictionary
present in various sciences and fields such as sociology, 3https://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary
4https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary
responses being internally coordinated and are distinct The definition recognize the functional relationships
befrom the organism’s developmental changes. This defini- tween an organism’s actions and the external stimuli in
tion is applicable to both individuals and groups of organ- its immediate surroundings. While the first definition
isms. Furthermore, it includes not only the organism’s emphasizes behavior within social interactions, Uher’s
responses to stimuli but also the coordination of these definition is broader, encompassing external changes or
responses, and distinguishes them from changes inherent activities influenced by external phenomena. Together,
to an organism’s growth or development. In psychology, these definitions ofer complementary insights into the
behavior is also often defined in various ways. According multifaceted nature of behavior.
to the American Psychological Association (APA) Dictio- In general, behavior refers to the observable and
meanary of Psychology [22], two definitions for behavior had surable actions, activities, or processes of an individual or
been provided. The first definition is broad, encompass- group, often initiated in response to internal or external
ing both observable actions and internal processes within stimuli.
an organism, including thoughts and feelings in response
to external and internal stimuli. This definition acknowl- 3.2. Antisocial
edges that behavior extends beyond merely observable
actions into internal cognitive processes and subjective Regarding the term antisocial, it also has a multitude
defexperiences as integral components of an organism’s be- initions as for the term behavior. The Collins dictionary5
havioral repertoire. The second one, is more restrictively, [27] gave four definitions for this concept: "contrary or
it describe behavior the observable and measurable as- injurious to the interests of society in general; against the
pects of actions or functions in response to controlled basic principles of society; harmful to the welfare of the
peostimuli [22]. This definition focuses on objective, observ- ple generally; avoiding association with others, unsociable"
able actions in response to controlled stimuli,highlighting [27]. In general, they collectively describe "antisocial" as
the empirical observation and experimentation nature ’behaviors or traits that are in opposition to something’.
of behavior. However, it may neglect the complexity of While each one emphasizes diferent facets of what is
human behavior by not fully accounting for internal men- considered antisocial, the three first definitions are close.
tal processes and subjective experiences, as seen in the The first one: ’interests of society’, the second one: ’basic
previous definitions. Cardwell, in his book "Dictionary principles of society’, and the third one: ’wellbeing of
of Psychology" [23], defines it more broadly as " a term others’. While the fourth one ’sociability’. The Oxford
general which refers to any response from an organism that dictionary associates antisocial with actions or behaviors
can be measured". Well, the author refers to behavior as that cause harm or annoyance to individuals or society
any answer, so it can be of diferent nature and towards in general [27]. The Cambridge dictionary definition of
anything (people, environment, etc.). Also, in this def- antisocial encapsulates two aspects: the harmful impact
inition, an organism can refer to an individual (human, on society and avoiding social interactions [28]. The
defanimal) or a group. In addition, the author adds that inition provided by Merriam Webster dictionary [29] as
"behavior" is something that can be measured, which is well describes two aspects of the antisocial: unsociable or
not present in the definitions mentioned above. Another tendency to avoid the company of others, and hostility to
definition was given by Colman [
In sociology, as in other sciences, there are several viduals and society. However, we have to highlight that definition for the concept behavior. The Open Education those last definitions are more close to the definition of Sociology Dictionary defines behavior as the way an indi- "asocial". Indeed, the Cambridge dictionary define asocial vidual or group behaves when interacting with others or as "not interested in forming social groups or connections events [25]. This definition focus the social interactions with others" [32].The Merriam Webster dictionary, define emphasizing that behavior is not just about people’s ac- explicitly antisocial as unsocial and asocial [29, 33]. As tions but also about how how and in what context they we can observe, there are two main points of view for the do it. Uher’s definition describe behavior as how an or- meaning of "antisocial": the first considers it a synonym ganism’s actions or changes are influenced by external of ’asocial’, while the second distinguishes between the factors or conditions in their immediate environment two terms. We have highlighted the diference in mean[26]. In other terms, behavior is a dynamic process that can change in response to the immediate environment. 5https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english ing between the literary definitions of ’antisocial’ and definition of antisocial behavior emphasizes the broad ’asocial,’ but we won’t delve into this point further, as it and subjective nature of such actions. It suggests that is not the focus of our work. Besides, we have to mention any behavior that is perceived as harmful or disruptive that the subject of the diference between the two con- to a group or society can be considered antisocial. This cepts has already been discussed in the literature by other can encompass a wide range of behaviors that can negascholars such as [34, 35, 36, 37, 38]. From the scientific tively afect social harmony, from minor infractions to references that we studied, we found that there is a dif- serious crimes. Another definition by [ 42] states that ference between In psychology, "antisocial" is in itself a antisocial behavior manifests when an individual delibsubjective term [23], but there is general agreement that erately causes harm to the property or animals of others. behaviors such as aggression, harm, and discrimination This emphasizes the deliberate nature of the behavior against others are considered antisocial. [23]. In the book in harming others and highlights the willful intent to ’The dictionary of psychology’ the author defines it as cause harm as a key aspect of antisocial behavior. These "opposed to society or to existing social organization and definitions highlight the harmful and disruptive nature of moral codes" [39]. In this definition, antisocial means be- antisocial behavior, as well as its intentional harmfulness ing against common morals and society in general, social and pervasive disregard for the rights of others. norms, rules, structures, or organizations. Under the UK legislation, antisocial behaviour is de
Upon examining the various definitions provided ifned in the "Crime and Disorder Act 1998" [ 43] as "acting above, it becomes evident that the term "antisocial" is in a manner that caused or was likely to cause harasspredominantly associated with, or indicative of, a cer- ment, alarm or distress to one or more persons not of tain type of behavior. This behavior is referred to as the same household as himself". This definition aims to "antisocial behavior," which we will discuss in the next address behaviors that disrupt the peace, safety, and wellsection. being of individuals beyond the immediate household, such as neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools. Also, 3.3. Antisocial Behaviour it recognizes that ASB can be based on the likelihood of harm. Even if a behavior does not cause immediate harm, As mentioned before, antisocial behavior is a multi- if it is likely to cause harm in the future, it can still be disciplinary concept that we find in diferent scientific considered antisocial. Another definition of antisocial ifelds. Thus, several definitions were found with no con- behaviour was given by the same organisation in the sensus on them [40]. "Anti-social Behaviour, Crime, and Policing Act 2014"
In psychology, antisocial behavior is defined as a psy- [44]. This definition is more detailed than the one from
chological condition characterized by a significant defi- 1998’s Crime and Policing Act and covers a wider range
ciency in the development of ethical or moral principles of behaviors and situations. It identifies three key
compowithin an individual’s personality [41]. This definition nents: (a) conduct causing harassment, alarm, or distress
suggests that individuals exhibiting antisocial behavior to any person; (b) conduct capable of causing nuisance or
may lack a proper foundation for understanding and ad- annoyance to someone on their residential premises; and
hering to societal ethical norms and moral values. A (c) conduct capable of causing housing-related nuisance
book entitled "A dictionary of psychology" by Colman or annoyance to any person. This definition surpasses its
[
Moor, in his study on the relationship between dark definitions from other domains. For instance, the author personality traits and antisocial online behavior [50], de- in [54] adopted a definition from psychology, specifically ifnes online antisocial behavior as "any deviant behavior from [55]. Others turn to definitions from legislation, as that is perpetrated online and has negative online or observed in [56, 57], which adopts the definition from the ofline consequences for the target". This definition en- "Crime and Disorder Act" [43] and so on. Furthermore, capsulates the multifaceted nature of online antisocial most scholars, especially in computer science literature, behavior, considering its deviant nature, digital context, often address it through its types or how it manifest, as and the potential for negative repercussions, and high- demonstrated in works such as [58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 12, 63]. lights its ability to transcend digital boundaries and cause Thus, following our thorough examination and analreal-world consequences. It aligns with the broader un- ysis of existing definitions of the previously provided derstanding of antisocial behavior in psychology and so- definitions and a comprehensive exploration of various ciology, emphasizing the negative consequences of such manifestations of antisocial behavior, which will be the actions on individuals and communities. focus of a separate study, we introduce our own definition
In a paper discussing online antisocial behavior and of online antisocial behavior: education [51], the author describes antisocial behavior as disturbed conduct marked by covert, visibly hostile, "Antisocial behavior is any intentional or unintentional and intentionally aggressive actions toward others and act of harm, disturb, alarm, distress, mislead, or any act emphasizes the repetition of ethical and social rule viola- that occurs online and has or likely has negative (online or ofline) efects on other individuals or society in general
and breaks the law."
consequences, harm, and potential legal repercussions that may not be immediately evident.
For instance, in the case of false information and propaganda, false information or a rumor may cause harm even years later. 7. Legal Implications: We include acts that violate laws and acknowledge that ASB can manifest in forms that cross legal boundaries and have legal consequences. This underscores the seriousness of certain actions that may lead to legal consequences and highlights that certain forms of online antisocial behavior are not just unethical but also illegal. 8. Social Impact: We want to emphasize that the scope of online antisocial behavior extends beyond individual harm to encompass the potential impact on society as a whole. It can contribute to a hostile, disrespectful, and unsafe online environment, erode trust and civility, undermine societal norms and values, and potentially lead to legal challenges and societal disruptions. This acknowledges that online actions can have wideranging consequences for communities and societal well-being. 1. Broad Scope: The definition encompasses a wide range of actions that can be considered antisocial.
This ranges from unintentional mistakes to intentional acts causing harm, disturbance, alarm, distress, or misleading others, and from intentional acts of harm to unintentional mistakes.
It acknowledges the diversity of behaviors that may have negative impacts on individuals or the broader society. 2. Online Occurrence: In the definition, we specifically focus on behaviors that occur in the online environment and acknowledge the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the digital world. 3. Negative Impact: We wanted to emphasize the negative consequences of antisocial behavior, highlighting its potential to cause harm, distress, or other negative efects on individuals, society, and the legal system. This includes both direct and indirect harm, encompassing emotional distress and violations of laws and regulations. 5. Conclusion 4. Online and Ofline Consequences : We saw that it is important to emphasize the potential In literature, we found that "antisocial behavior" is a term consequences of antisocial behavior, not only in whose origins tend to be in the social sciences. Indeed, the online world but also in the real one. We ac- long ago, ASB was present in many of its branches, such knowledge that the digital world can spill over as psychology, sociology, law, etc.However, it is not only into the physical world and recognize that actions bound for these sciences; it is also present in "computer originating on the internet can have actual real- sciences" as "online antisocial behavior". Indeed, OASB world impacts. As an example of the devastating has gathered a lot of interest in the literature and especonsequences that may have online antisocial be- cially in computer science these last few years due to havior in the real world, consider the case of Han- the huge development and use of the internet. Being a nah Smith, a teenager of 14 who committed sui- multidisciplinary concept, there is no common definicide by hanging herself after negative comments tion of online antisocial behavior. The importance of were posted on her page on the question/answer defining online antisocial behavior lies in its utility for platform Ask.fm [64]. understanding, managing, and researching such actions, 5. Intentional and Unintentional Acts: We rec- as well as its implications for law and policy-making. ognize that both intentional and unintentional Despite the complexities of defining antisocial behavior, actions may be antisocial. We acknowledge that particularly in the digital realm, it’s a vital endeavor. In harm can result from actions that were either de- this paper, we tried to discuss the existing definitions liberately planned or occurred inadvertently, and of online antisocial behavior. We discussed and detailed that not all ASB is motivated by malicious intent. some of the existing definition of ’Behavior’, ’antisocial’, Also, individuals may engage in harmful behavior ’antisocial behavior’ and ’online antisocial behavior’. The without fully understanding the consequences, table 1 present some of the definitions. We also proposed realizing the impact on others, or violating legal a definition of it that we tried to make comprehensive boundaries. and encompass various dimensions. Our definition of 6. Potential Harm: Antisocial behavior may have antisocial behavior (ASB) is in the online environment, it the potential for harm, even if it is not immedi- is comprehensive and captures a broad range of harmful ately apparent or intended. This recognizes that actions that can occur in the digital world and their potential consequences for individuals, society, and the law.
It highlights the pervasiveness of ASB online, extending beyond intentional acts of harm to include unintentional mistakes and actions that may not be immediately recognized as harmful or unlawful.
In dictionaries
"the way in which someone conducts oneself or behaves; the response of an individual,
group, or species to its environment" [
"how an individual or group acts or conducts themselves when interacting with another individual, group, or event" [25]; "external changes or activities of living organisms that are functionally mediated by other external phenomena in the present moment" [26];
In dictionaries "1: contrary or injurious to the interests of society in general; 2: against the basic principles of society; 3: harmful to the welfare of the people generally; 4: avoiding association with others, unsociable" [27]; "harmful or annoying to other people, or to society in general" [30]; 1: harmful to society; 2: often avoiding spending time with other people" [28]; 1: averse to the society of others : UNSOCIABLE; 2: hostile or harmful to organized society" [29]; "showing a lack of care for other people or for society in general" [31]; "not interested in forming social groups or connections with others" [32];
"opposed to society or to existing social organisation and moral codes" [39]
In psychology
"any behavior that is considered harmful or disruptive within a group of society" [23];
"behavior that sharply deviates from social norms and also violates other people’s rights"
[69];
" personality disorder involving a marked lack of ethical or moral development" [41];
"Aggressive, impulsive, and sometimes violent actions that flout social and ethical codes
such as laws and regulations relating to personal and property rights" [39];
"Acts intended to harm or disadvantage another individual, and can negatively afect the
well-being of others" [70];
"a personality disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation
of the rights of others" [
"Antisocial behavior is any intentional or unintentional act of harm, disturb, alarm, distress, mislead, or any act that occurs online and has or likely has negative (online or ofline) efects on other individuals or society in general and breaks the law."
The authors gratefully acknowledge financial support from "La Direction Générale de la Recherche Scientifique et du Développement Technologique (DGRSDT)" of Algeria.