Staff Profile
Helen McCarthy
Academic Associate in Criminology and Sociology
I am a PhD student and an Academic Associate in Criminology and Sociology. My research focuses on internet-based communities and subcultures. Currently, I am working on a digital ethnographic study into the post-COVID evolution of anti-vaccination mis/disinformation in online spaces.
Previously, I received a BA (Hons) in English Literature from the University of Manchester. I then achieved an MA in Criminology from the University of Central Lancashire.
- School – York Business School
- Email – h.mccarthy@yorksj.ac.uk
Teaching
I currently teach on the following modules:
- CRI4002M - Crime and Deviance in the Contemporary World
- CRI4003M - Preventing and Punishing
- SSC5001M - Social Research Methods
- CRI6002M - Sex Work
Research
My research focuses on niche internet communities and how they navigate and define various online spaces.
My MA thesis was an examination of the methods and motivations of 'predator hunting' groups operating through Facebook in the UK. Before this, I independently produced a documentary podcast series which focused on the 'cult-like' aspects of online communities, including multi-level marketing, ‘pick-up artists’, and social media influencers.
After completing my MA in Criminology at the University of Central Lancashire, I also worked as a research assistant within the university's School of Justice, co-authoring a theoretical article considering modern applications of classic prison models, which is currently a work in progress.
My ongoing PhD research project uses digital ethnography to examine the spread of anti-vaccination mis/disinformation online in a post-Covid context.
Conferences
‘Stay away from our kids: The methods and motivations of online ‘paedophile hunting’ groups operating through Facebook in England’, British Society of Criminology Postgraduate Conference 2023, University of Central Lancashire, 27 June 2023.
