Coping with radicalization: An examination of grief experiences among family members of homegrown violent extremists

• In Event: Coping with Radicalization and Managing Exit and Reintegration

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to better understand family members of homegrown violent extremists. The primary research question is: How do individuals cope with radicalization and violent extremism in the family? Data from in-depth, life history interviews with 23 family members of homegrown violent extremists were analyzed using grounded theory. Participants described a variety of negative and positive consequences that they understood to be a direct result of their family member's radicalization. We frame the results within the context of the five stages of grief developed by Kübler-Ross: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. We conclude with a discussion of grief and perseverance, paying close attention to the intense feelings of loss and confusion as family members come to accept the personal and social consequences of radicalization and violent extremism.

Authors

• Karyn Sporer, University of Maine

• Brooke Buxton, University of Nebraska Omaha / NCITE