The Internet has introduced the world to it new social, technological, and commercial environment. While this medium has changed the way that people communicate, (earn, and explore, it has also impacted the way people engage in deviant and criminal behavior. This research examines patterns of Internet usage to understand the role of the Internet in facilitating sexually deviant and/or abusive behavior. While there is anecdotal and empirical support that the Internet plays an increasingly important role in sexually deviant behavior, little is known about the individual level characteristics of those who utilize the Internet to engage in sexually deviant behavior, the role the Internet plays in their lives, and the pathways through which the Internet facilitates engagement in deviant behavior.

In an important departure from prior research, this study collected and compares data on Internet behavior from Internet users via an online survey. The study explores three main research objectives. The first objective is to examine the levels of computer literacy and Internet usage among those who engage in online sexually deviant behavior and determine if these levels are comparable to the general online population. Secondly, this research examines the various ways in which online users engage with the Internet environment to explore issues of sex and sexuality. Third, this research explores the effect of perceived anonymity, engagement with like-minded peers, and excessive engagement with online erotica on individuals' engagement in online sexually deviant behaviors.

Finally, this dissertation utilizes situational crime prevention techniques to explore preventive measures that might be used to limit engagement in deviant behavior. This exploration examines the "physical" space of the Internet and environmental influences that can lead to offending opportunities by the very nature of the environmental structure.