Radicalisation and extremism
Radical or extreme beliefs can be very difficult to deal with and talk about. It’s important to recognise the signs of extreme beliefs and radicalisation in case you’re worried about yourself or someone you know.
What is extremism?
People who have unreasonable and unacceptable beliefs which are hateful, dangerous or against the law are often known as extremists. Extremists might use violence, fear or hate to express their views and control and influence people. This harmful behaviour is called extremism.
Extremism is often related to politics or religion but can cover any extreme views including animal rights and environmentalism. It's any view based on violence, hatred and intolerance of others.
Having extreme views can be dangerous. And this can often lead to harmful and illegal activities involving violence, attacks, discrimination or hate - which you could be arrested or sent to prison for. This can affect you and your future. If you’re worried about having extreme views, you can talk to us.
What is radicalisation?
Radicalisation is when someone starts to believe or support extreme or 'radical' views. They might begin to change their behaviour and beliefs alone or they might be being pressured or persuaded by someone else.
Someone who has been radicalised might believe that gender-based, religious or racial violence is OK. They may be influenced by well-known online figures. Or they might have links to extreme groups that preach hate.
Signs of radicalisation
It's normal for our views to change over time. And it’s OK to make new friends or spend time with different people. But if these things are making someone change their behaviour and see or treat others negatively, it could be a sign that person is being radicalised.
Some indicators that may suggest a person is being radicalised include:
- Talking positively about dangerous groups or people who promote hate.
- Spending time with people or on websites that promote violence, hate, racism, homophobia or religious prejudice.
- Becoming secretive and not wanting to talk to anyone about where they spend time or what they’re doing online.
- Refusing to talk to people from a certain country or who have a different sexuality or belief.
- Being rude, aggressive or violent towards a particular group of people, for example, Jewish, Muslim or LGBTQ+ people, women, or supporters of certain political parties.
Am I being radicalised?
When you’re being radicalised, it can be hard to know who to trust. It can help to ask yourself questions like:
- Do I get angry or defensive if someone questions what I think?
- Am I being pressured to change my opinions or beliefs?
- Do I, or the people around me, feel hate or anger towards certain people or groups - like women, particular races or religions, or LGBTQ+ people - and want to hurt them or get revenge?
- Are people promising me that they can make me important or put me in control as long as I do what they say?
- Do I feel like I want control even if it means doing something harmful?
- Do I think the way to change the world is by using violence or doing something illegal or dangerous?
It’s not always easy to tell if you’re being radicalised. It could be that you feel some of these things and not others, and that your views are changing over time. If you’ve answered yes or maybe to any of these questions it could mean that you're at risk.
Where can I get help?
It's important to remember that you’re not alone.
If you're worried speak to someone outside the situation like a teacher or a friend who can help you to get a second opinion.
Our counsellors can also help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings. And help you find ways to get support and make decisions. You don’t have to give us your name if you don’t want to, find out more about our confidentiality promise.
