4/7/25

Cybersecurity Analyst: The Role of Social Science in
Defending Digital Frontiers

Introduction
In an increasingly interconnected world, cybersecurity has become a cornerstone of
organizational resilience and societal trust. Among the most critical roles in this domain
is that cybersecurity analyst are responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating
threats to digital infrastructure. While technical skills are often emphasized in this field,
the integration of social science principles is just as important to a cybersecurity analyst’s
success. Understanding human behavior, communication patterns, and societal influences
allows analysts to anticipate cyber threats, develop user-centered security protocols, and
effectively interact with diverse populations. This paper explores how cybersecurity
analysts incorporate social science research and concepts into their work, with particular
focus on how these practices impact marginalized groups and society at large.

Understanding Human Behavior in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity analysts rely on social science principles to better understand the
motivations and behaviors of both cybercriminals and users. Social engineering attacks
exploit human psychology through manipulation tactics like phishing or pretexting.
Analysts who understand psychological theories can more easily identify and stop these
types of threats. According to Alsmadi and Zarour (2020), social engineering attacks
often hinge on trust, authority, or urgency, all concepts rooted in behavioral science.
Theories such as Routine Activity Theory (RAT) help analysts anticipate when and
where cybercrimes are likely to occur by analyzing the convergence of motivated
offenders, suitable targets, and the absence of capable guardians.
Understanding insider threats also requires insight into social and organizational
psychology. Cybersecurity analysts often collaborate with human resources to identify
signs of employee dissatisfaction, which could lead to security breaches. These practices
show how social science research supports a cybersecurity analyst’s ability to detect non
technical indicators of risk.

Daily Applications in the Analyst Role
Cybersecurity analysts use social science research to improve communication, strengthen
security awareness training, and shape incident response plans. A major part of the job is
developing awareness campaigns that educate users about secure practices. These efforts
are more effective when grounded in principles of learning and communication theory.
Hadlington (2018) notes that training built around cognitive and motivational factors is
more likely to be retained and followed by employees.
Cybersecurity analysts also interpret behavioral data from system logs, user access
reports, and network activity. Recognizing unusual patterns often depends on a solid
understanding of what typical behavior looks like within a specific organizational culture,
a concept linked to sociology. Analysts work closely with other departments, translating
technical data into clear language for non-technical staff. Communication rooted in social
science makes this process more effective.

Engaging Society and Marginalized Groups
Cybersecurity analysts must consider how security measures affect marginalized
communities. Security protocols that are not inclusive can unintentionally exclude users
with disabilities, non-native English speakers, or people with limited access to
technology. Analysts apply inclusive design and equity-centered thinking to ensure
security practices are accessible and fair to all users.
Smith and Rege (2020) argue that cybersecurity strategies should consider the
sociocultural dynamics of digital inclusion. For example, requiring multifactor
authentication without accessible alternatives can exclude older adults or users in
underserved communities. Ethical concerns also arise when monitoring user behavior,
especially within vulnerable populations. Analysts must balance the need for security
with protecting privacy and civil liberties, ensuring marginalized groups are not unfairly
targeted.

Conclusion
The role of a cybersecurity analyst goes beyond technical tasks; it is closely connected to
social sciences. By applying principles from psychology, sociology, communication, and
ethics, analysts can create safer and more inclusive digital environments. This approach
improves threat detection, strengthens user training, and promotes ethical engagement
with all sectors of society, especially marginalized communities. As digital threats
continue to evolve, cybersecurity analysts must continue to apply both technical
knowledge and an understanding of human behavior.

References
Alsmadi, I., & Zarour, M. (2020). Social engineering attacks: Common techniques and
how to prevent them. Journal of Information Security, 11(2), 129-144.
https://doi.org/10.4236/jis.2020.112008
Hadlington, L. (2018). Human factors in cybersecurity: Examining the role of human
behaviour in security violations. Computers & Security, 73, 187-195.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cose.2017.11.011
Smith, R., & Rege, A. (2020). Cybersecurity and marginalized communities: An
intersectional approach. Journal of Cyber Policy, 5(1), 90-105.
https://doi.org/10.1080/23738871.2020.1723036