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From extreme ideas to violent and non-violent outcomes: a life-course perspective on terrorist suspects

Fabienne Thijs, Elaine Rodermond, & Edward Kleemans, University of Amsterdam

Due to the structural threat of far-right and jihadi inspired violence worldwide, more attention is being paid to the radicalization process of extremists and terrorists. However, research into this process is primarily focused on pathways to violent outcomes, while neglecting extremists' and terrorists' pathways to other, non-violent outcomes. In the absence of comparison groups, distinguishing factors for violent as opposed to non-violent outcomes remain largely unknown. Using rich probation files on individuals suspected or convicted of a terrorist offence in the Netherlands, we provide insight into the life-course of both violent and non-violent individuals. The results shed light on their criminal careers, mental health situation, online activities, socio-economic status, social networks, and potential trigger events leading up to their suspicion, enabling us to pinpoint which factors and processes play a role in becoming violent (or not). Finally, we discuss our findings in light of theoretical frameworks and existing knowledge on extremists' and terrorists' pathways to violent and non-violent outcomes.

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