| dc.description.abstract | Purpose and problem statements: The purpose of this study was to explore why
certain objects are more prominent targets for graffiti than others. This study is
expected to give an idea of how morality and rationality affects what is being
vandalized by graffiti or not, and hopefully contribute to increased knowledge of the
subject.
• How do people who write graffiti discuss the moral implications of their
actions on the message board Flashback?
• Why are some objects, according to the participants of the message board,
seen as more legitimate targets for graffiti while other objects are not? How
can it be explained?
Method: A qualitative approach was selected for this study, using a content analysis
method of posts related to graffiti and morale that have been published on the
message board Flashback. During the content analysis, posts were divided into
different categories that seek to explain the underlying reasons as to why some objects
are more prone to be targets for graffiti.
Findings: The current study revealed that there are many different underlying reasons
as to why different items are being written on with graffiti. Social learning of
deviance and subcultural normative standards play a big role as to what is seen to be
more legitimate to write graffiti on and what is not. People who write graffiti often
use different techniques of neutralization to maintain their morale, despite the fact that
they commit acts that would normally be considered immoral. Recognition and risktaking
is a key part of why some places are more sought after to write graffiti on than
others. | sv |
