Movie piracy: how novelty-seeking relates to illegal downloading

• Published in: EuroMed journal of business Vol. 14; no. 1; pp. 21 - 30
• Main Authors: Urbonavicius, Sigitas, Dikcius, Vytautas, Adomaviciute, Karina, Urbonavicius, Ignas
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bingley Emerald Group Publishing Limited 01.04.2019
• Subjects: Attitudes; Emotions; Ethics; Motion pictures
• ISSN: 1450-2194; 1758-888X
• DOI: 10.1108/EMJB-03-2018-0016

PurposeMovie piracy is triggered by the release delay of new movies in various countries, especially if novelty awareness is considered an asset among peers. Therefore, novelty seeking becomes a relevant factor in the illegal downloading of movies, especially among a younger population that has a higher propensity to novelty seeking. The purpose of this paper is to study novelty seeking in the context of illegal downloading of movies among a young population. More specifically, this study will highlight the relation of novelty seeking with the frequency of illegal downloading of movies and attitudes towards piracy in general.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on data that were obtained via survey in Lithuania. The use of SEM allowed development of a model that integrates novelty seeking with the more typical factors of digital piracy.FindingsThe study shows a relation between novelty seeking, attitudes towards piracy and the frequency of illegal downloading of movies.Originality/valueThe study shows the importance of novelty seeking in the context of movie piracy. It specifies the relation of novelty seeking with attitude and behaviour, highlighting directions for further research.