back to programm overview

Effectiveness of programs for preventing radicalization: A meta-analysis

Friedrich Lösel; Cambridge University; Irina Jugl, Sonja King, Doris Bender, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg.

Politically, religiously and otherwise motivated forms of extremism, radicalization and terrorism are high priority topics in many countries that led to numerous prevention programs. However, there is not yet sound knowledge on their effectiveness. Therefore, we carried out two studies: an international survey of prevention programs and a systematic review and meta-analysis of outcome evaluations. In our survey, we interviewed experts from 32 countries. Most programs had a universal or universal-selective approach. We got detailed information on these programs, but only few had controlled outcome evaluations. Therefore, we carried out a systemic review and screened about 15,000 reports. Only 26 (quasi-)experimental outcome evaluations met our lenient eligibility criteria. We analyzed design characteristics, program contents, samples, and effect sizes. Most programs targeted religiously motivated or right wing extremism and had a quasi-experimental design. Compared to our previous review (Jugl et al., 2021) there was a recent increase of sound studies (including some RCTs). Overall, programs had a mean positive effect on behavioral and attitudinal outcomes related to violent extremism. We also found various moderator effects. Despite promising results, the low internal validity of most evaluations and small number of eligible studies limit generalization. More high-quality evaluations are necessary.

back to programm overview