Radicalisation is the process through which people come to support increasingly extreme political, religious or other ideals. This can lead them to support violent extremism and terrorism.
Radicalisation can happen in various ways and can happen to anyone. It can happen:
- in person by another person or in a group who actively seek to persuade others to adopt their views
- through ‘self-radicalisation’ - without direct influence from another person, by reading or viewing extremist literature or material, often online
- through the internet via social media forums and even through online gaming sites.
Risk factors
People might be susceptible to radicalisation due to a variety of circumstances, needs or other underlying factors.
Factors which may influence someone to be more susceptible to radicalisation could include:
- feeling isolated, disconnected or marginalised from family, friends or the community
- lacking a sense of belonging, meaning or purpose
- having a sense of grievance.
Belief in an extremist cause and membership of an extremist group can offer people a sense of purpose, identity and community. This may be particularly appealing to someone who is experiencing difficulties and challenges in their life.
Signs of radicalisation
Signs that someone is being radicalised may include:
- isolation or withdrawal from family and friends
- obsession with and secrecy around the internet and social networking sites
- becoming uncooperative and disengaged
- using abusive, aggressive or extremist views/comments/threats/language
- a fascination with weapons, chemicals, explosives or extremist activity and events, including a fascination with historical or unusual subjects that may have extremist links
- significant changes in relationships
- the use of seemingly scripted speech
- change in behaviour or appearance due to new influences
- seeking to recruit or ‘groom’ others to an extremist ideology
- possession of violent extremist literature.