Radicalisation

What is Radicalisation?

Radicalisation is the process by which someone starts to adopt extreme views, beliefs, or ideologies that can lead them to support or engage in harmful, violent, or illegal actions. 

This process can happen gradually and may affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and the person may become increasingly isolated from mainstream society and influenced by extremist groups or ideas. Radicalisation can occur around various issues, such as politics, religion, race, or social causes.

Resources

Presentations,
Lesson Plans, Videos and Worksheets.

How radicalisation happens

Personal vulnerability – people who feel alienated and powerless are more vulnerable to radicalisation. They may seek a sense of belonging or purpose in extremist ideologies 

Peer pressure – peer groups or individuals in radical activities may encourage other to join or adopt extreme beliefs 

The process of radicalisation may involve:

  • Being groomed online or in person
  • Exploitation, including sexual or criminal exploitation
  • Psychological manipulation
  • Exposure to violent material and other inappropriate information
  • The risk of physical harm or death through extremist acts.

Signs someone may be being groomed and radicalised could include:

  • Isolating themselves from family and friends
  • Unwilling or unable to discuss views
  • Increased levels of anger
  • Talking as if speaking from a script/ not using words they normally use
  • A sudden disrespectful attitude towards others
  • Secretive, especially around their phone or internet use

Get help

If you are concerned about a friend, it can be tempting to not get involved. Whilst more difficult, helping to try to stop things before they get even worse is often the right thing to do.

If you see online graphic or violent extremist material or content that supports, directs, or glorifies terrorism, you can report using an anonymous form on the Gov.uk website. https://www.gov.uk/report-terrorism

Or if you see the above content on a social media app, you can report it via the app itself.

If you believe someone is going to act in a way to cause immediate harm others, such as carryout an attack call 999.

Resources

Resources coming soon