The United States has recognized a variety of trends in global terrorism over the past few years. These patterns were made more apparent by September 11, 2001’s terrorist attacks. There was a shift away from traditional funding sources for terrorists and established terrorist organisations towards radicals who are more open to engaging. This is part of an overall shift in international terrorists’ actions and tactics, which are increasingly focused on widespread destruction (Kaewunruen, et al. 2018). These trends show the serious threat posed by terrorists from abroad to the world’s population, in particular the United States. In the same time, domestic terrorists pose a significant threat to the United States. Between 1980 and 2000, 335 incidents of terror attacks were reported by the FBI. (Hawtin, 2014). There were 247 attacks on the domestic terror network and 88 attacks against terrorists abroad. Both foreign and local terrorists will pose a serious threat to the United States. Terrorists’ abilities will improve as they expand and diversify their tactics. The dangers to the United States will only increase. Counterterrorism and other threat prevention strategies have been developed to combat terrorism. Psychological preventive programs are designed to combat juvenile extremism. However, there are contradictory evidences about their effectiveness. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of these programs.
The Research Problem
We will be investigating the following question:
Is it possible to create 16-week programs for psychosocial prevention of extremism, radicalization and other forms of extremeism among those aged 16-34?
Participants
Major stakeholders include young people between 16-34 years, youth from local communities, police agencies, psychologists, media and other actors. This project will involve other stakeholders, including scholars, policymakers and philanthropists. This initiative will be funded mainly by donors. To see if the program can reduce extremism or radicalization, youth will be involved in it.
Assessing the Needs
To identify participant needs, a screening tool that includes an interview questionnaire and a screening instrument will be employed. In order to assess the risk of extremism among young people, key stakeholders will be asked questions. These interviews will determine whether the program to fight extremism or radicalization among youth should be implemented. A literature review will also be conducted to determine the extent of extremism among young people and the current measures to address it.
Programm Specification
This project will use a psychological preventive program to combat extremism among young people aged 16-34. The program will teach participants about radicalization and extremism and the negative consequences. It also teaches them how to avoid becoming extremists. This 16-week course is for teens in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This event will take places at one the city’s schools. The event will see five psychologists recruited to help with training against extremism and radicalism.
Literature works that are already in existence
Extremism encompasses religious, political and other forms. It has been a growing global menace, which has caused significant monetary losses, human suffering, and has threatened democratic structures around the globe. This development required comprehensive and proactive preventive action.