Radicalisation is the process by which an individual or a group comes to adopt increasingly radical views in opposition to a political, social, or religious status quo. It is a phased and complex process in which an individual or a group embraces a radical ideology or belief that accepts, uses, or condones violence, including acts of terrorism, to reach a goal. Radicalisation can mean different things to different people, and there is no universally accepted definition of it. However, some common signs of radicalisation include:
- Desire for status or need to dominate
- Being influenced or controlled by a group
- An obsessive or angry desire for change or "something to be done"
- Spending an increasing amount of time on the internet or social media, especially on sites that promote extremist views
- Changes in behavior, such as becoming more isolated or secretive
- Changes in appearance, such as dressing differently or adopting a new hairstyle
- Changes in language, such as using extremist terminology or expressing extreme views
Radicalisation can happen to anyone, regardless of age, social class, religion, ethnic or educational background. It is seen as a form of harm or abuse of vulnerable people and should be dealt with as any other safeguarding concern. Identifying the risks of radicalisation requires practitioners to exercise their professional judgment and to seek further advice as necessary.
