Abstract
Various theoretical approaches assume that identity diffusion is an influencing factor of extremism. However, there are hardly any empirical tests on this relationship. Based on a nationwide survey of 8,317 young people in Switzerland, the study analyses whether identity diffusion is associated with right-wing extremist, left-wing extremist, and Islamist extremist attitudes. In addition, the study tests whether identity diffusion mediates the influence of family and school-related variables on extremist attitudes. The results show that identity diffusion primarily increases approval of left-wing extremist and Islamist extremist attitudes. Furthermore, identity diffusion mediates to a small extent the influence of parenting on extremist attitudes.
Highlights
Identity diffusion, a state of identity in which persons are confused about their goals, occupations, gender roles etc. (Erikson, 1959, 1968), is discussed to be linked with various forms of deviant behavior and attitudes, so with extremism and terrorism
According to different theoretical approaches, identity diffusion can be assumed as a cause of extremist radicalization
It can be assumed that young people who are insecure about their identity are at risk to adopt extremist ideologies to create a stable identity because they offer a clear world view, orientation, and security
Summary
A state of identity in which persons are confused about their goals, occupations, gender roles etc. (Erikson, 1959, 1968), is discussed to be linked with various forms of deviant behavior and attitudes, so with extremism and terrorism. People without a fixed identity are in an aversive state; they are in search of orientation and more open to extremist ideologies because they offer easy answers to complex questions. Identity diffusion was found to be related to aggression (Dammann et al, 2011). An explanation for this relationship is that deficits in enduring feelings of ambivalence, grief, or sadness resulting from identity diffusion can increasingly lead to impulsive actions and to aggression (Dammann et al, 2011). Joining extremist groups can enable identity diffused people to exercise violence. In this respect, too, a connection between identity diffusion and extremism can be assumed
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