Abstract

This study examines individual differences in violent extremist intentions. It combines key criminological theories and concepts including situational action theory, social learning theory, self-control, general strain theory and legal cynicism. We employ a conceptually integrated approach to studying extremism, which acknowledges the profound effect of person-environment reciprocity and, thereby, we aim to identify key individual, developmental and social mechanisms involved in the development of extremist propensities. The analytical framework is tested using structural equation modeling. The analysis is based on a German nationally representative survey (N = 1502) collected via Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI). Representativity of the sample was achieved via a systematic and controlled approach of a multi-stratified probability sample (random-digit-dialing) in the dual-frame mode (landline telephone- households and mobile phone users). Results highlight that low law-relevant morality, low self-control, and exposure to extremism-promoting settings are associated with individuals’ readiness to engage in violent extremism. The relationship between legal morality, self-control and violent extremism is further mediated by exposure to extremist peers. We thereby identify exposure to extremist settings as a key mechanism, which stresses the importance of including social environmental factors in the explanation of violent extremism. The proximate determinants are further related to a series of distal factors, such as perceived individual and collective strains and personal alienation.

摘要

本研究考察了暴力极端主义意图的个体差异。它结合了关键的犯罪学理论和概念，包括情境行动理论、社会学习理论、自我控制、一般紧张理论和法律犬儒主义。我们采用概念上综合的方法来研究极端主义，承认人与环境互惠的深远影响，因此，我们旨在确定参与极端主义倾向发展的关键个人、发展和社会机制。分析框架使用结构方程模型进行测试。该分析基于德国全国代表性调查（N = 1502) 通过计算机辅助电话采访 (CATI) 收集。样本的代表性是通过在双帧模式（固定电话-家庭和移动电话用户）下的多层次概率样本（随机数字拨号）的系统和受控方法实现的。结果表明，与法律相关的低道德、低自我控制和暴露于促进极端主义的环境与个人参与暴力极端主义的意愿有关。法律道德、自我控制和暴力极端主义之间的关系进一步通过接触极端主义同伴来调节。因此，我们将接触极端主义环境确定为一个关键机制，它强调了在解释暴力极端主义时将社会环境因素纳入其中的重要性。