Different Strokes for Different Folks: The Role of Psychological Needs and Other Risk Factors in Early Radicalisation

Abstract

Radicalising individuals gradually accept violence as legitimate to instigate political and/or societal changes. In two studies, we investigate the beginning phase of the radicalisation process. We examine whether different trajectories into radicalism can be distinguished based on underlying needs , related to identity, injustice, sensation, or significance. Study 1 (N = 179, Mage = 37.6, SDage = 12.1, Rangeage 19–75 years, 46.4% female) investigated the relation between these psychological needs and risk factors of radicalisation such as relative deprivation. Study 2 (N = 183, Mage = 27.2, SDage = 12.0, Rangeage 18–81 years, 53.0% female) examined whether individuals are attracted to organisations that cater to their own psychological needs, and whether individuals who are thought to be more at risk indeed support violent organisations to a greater extent. Findings indicate that individuals with stronger desires for justice and status are attracted to organisations that can gratify such desires. In addition, at-risk individuals indeed support violent organisations to a greater extent. The implications of these findings for future research and government policy are discussed.