The psychology of radicalisation

WE often hear about violent attacks on civilians in different cities from the white American supremacy group, the Ku Klux Klan, to the recent shooting in Muscat.

I have always been interested in understanding the psychological roots behind radicalisation and how can what look like a law-abiding citizen suddenly become a criminal killing and injuring a large number of civilians.

Radicalisation is the process of supporting or engaging in activities deemed as in violation of important social norms.

This includes the killing of civilians or destruction of properties. Radicalisation can range from supporting the idea of terrorism while going about your everyday business to actually being involved in performing the attacks.

The most extremely radicalised individual is the suicide bomber who is ready to sacrifice his life for ‘the cause’.

While reading about this topic I came across the following statement from a member of a radical group: “Family and relationships are forgotten in that place. There was no place for love. That means a passion and loyalty to that group, to those in charge, to those who sacrificed their lives for the group. Then I came to a stage where I had no love for myself. I had no value for my life. I was ready to give myself fully, even to destroy myself, in order to destroy another person.”

This statement shows the psychological processes that goes inside the radicalised person’s mind that makes killing others justifiable by dehumanising and delegitimising them, so the terrorist convinces himself that killing others is justified.

Psychological theorists suggest that the main motivating force behind extremism can be multiple and complex. One of the main motivators is the individual’s need for recognition, self-esteem, achievement, meaning, competence, and control.

This is why we often find people who are subjected to feelings of injustice or oppression may seek out groups or ideologies that provide them with a sense of justice.

People who feel isolated or socially disconnected may find in extremist groups a place that offers them belonging and appreciation and a strong sense of identity.

Sometimes, psychological trauma or negative life experiences, such as losing a loved one or being exposed to violence, can make individuals more susceptible to adopting extremist ideas and behaviours.

Individuals who feel their lives lack meaning or purpose may find in extremism a way to give their lives significance and importance. Charisma can be a tool in attracting radicalised individuals when a charismatic person uses his charm and personality to deceive others convincing them of his or her extremist beliefs.

Sometimes members of the radicalised group express their love and worship of their leader and the need for his or her approval becomes the most significant motivation to commit a terrorist act. Revenge which is the desire to reciprocate harm against those who have caused harm to oneself or one’s group is another motivator for radicalisation as it restores the balance of power by giving a humiliating blow to ‘the enemy’ responsible for one’s humiliation, thus redeeming one’s lost significance.

Finally, understanding the psychology of radicalisation will help in planning and implementing strategies in dealing with extremist groups.