Understanding online radicalization using NIJ-funded research

This report synthesized findings from several research studies that the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has funded since 2012 to examine how the Internet and online social media help foster radicalization to violent extremism and terrorism. Two of the studies are distributed by NACJD. One, Radicalization on the Internet: Virtual Extremism in the United States, 2015-2017 (ICPSR 37679), surveyed 3,000 Americans ages 15-36 about their online experiences and exposure to hate groups and materials. It explored what factors correlated with increased likelihood of viewing extremist content. The second, The Creation of Muhajirat in America: Social Media as a Platform for Crafting Gender-Specific Interventions for the Domestic Radicalization of Women, 5 countries, 1970-2018 (ICPSR 37682), focused on women’s radicalization. It coded social media and other data on 300 women by their risk level of involvement in extremist violence. The other NIJ studies with findings synthesized in this report looked at posts on far-right online forums; analyzed social media data of individuals involved in hate crimes or ideological criminal activities to compare online vs. offline processes; and evaluated NGO Internet safety programs aimed at countering online radicalization among youth. The research collectively suggests the Internet’s influence on radicalization is nuanced– providing pathways to extremist content and networks for some, but not radicalizing all who are exposed. The role of online engagement also seems to vary across individuals and ideological groups. More research is needed on the specifics of how radicalizing materials spread online, and what constitute the most effective interventions.