Radicalisation Across the Community and Forensic Units: A Systematic Literature Review on the Psychology of Violent Extremism

Henrich, Sören ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4792-8725, Ireland, Jane L and Lewis, Michael (2025) Radicalisation Across the Community and Forensic Units: A Systematic Literature Review on the Psychology of Violent Extremism. In: Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Radicalisation: Evidence-Based Policy and Practice. Policy Press, Bristol, pp. 163-215. ISBN 9781447370925 (paperback); 9781447370949 (online); 9781447370932 (ebook)

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Abstract

A systematic literature review was conducted of the existing empirical evidence pertaining to radicalisation across different settings. Findings suggest an emphasis on factors commonly included in risk assessments, such as attitudes, justifications and aversive events. However, radicalisation of forensic populations appears understudied and at times overlapping significantly with general violence literature. It is recommended to shift focus from the presence of influences to an understanding of their relevance regarding extremist violence.