The most common profile of someone susceptible to radicalization includes several vulnerability factors rather than a single fixed profile. Individuals at risk often experience struggles such as an identity crisis, questioning their place in society, and becoming distanced from cultural or religious backgrounds. Personal crises like family issues or traumatic events, feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and unmet aspirations also contribute to vulnerability. External influences such as community tension, exposure to extremist material, association with peers or family involved in extremist groups, and experiences of discrimination further increase susceptibility. Some common personal and environmental vulnerability factors include:
- Identity crisis and exploring belonging
- Personal or family-related crises
- Experiences of racism, discrimination, or social exclusion
- Low self-esteem and unmet life aspirations
- Social isolation or difficulties in social interactions
- Association with extremist peers or family members
- Exposure to extremist narratives, often via the internet
These factors combine to create a profile where an individual looks for purpose, identity, community, or solutions to grievances, which radicalizers exploit by providing a narrative that offers a sense of belonging or significance. No single factor alone is definitive, but the combination raises risk.
