The Psychology of Counter-terrorism

In recent decades, psychology has provided one of the most useful frameworks for understanding terrorism and terrorists. This edited book explores how psychology can be used to improve our understanding of terrorism and counterterrorism, and contains essays by some of the leading scholars in the fie [...]
Visa längre beskrivning

In recent decades, psychology has provided one of the most useful frameworks for understanding terrorism and terrorists. This edited book explores how psychology can be used to improve our understanding of terrorism and counterterrorism, and contains essays by some of the leading scholars in the field. The volume comprises contributions from psychologists and writers who have direct experience of researching terrorism. Some have met actual terrorists; others have worked to assist those tasked with the serious responsibility of combating terrorism. In many cases, authors combine academic credentials and understanding with substantial policy or practitioner experience. This combination of perspectives ensures a holistic and richly informed view of the subject and issues. The aim is to provide balanced and objective insight into the psychology of terrorists; what their motivations are, what keeps them involved in terrorist groups, and what eventually forces most to end their active involvement in terrorism. The second element of the book focuses on the challenging issue of how to respond to terrorism.It is hoped that these chapters can provide some insight for those concerned with short-term tactical problems (e.g. interviewing), as well as those looking towards the more long-term strategic questions of bringing an entire terrorist campaign to an end. Ultimately, the individuals involved in terrorism require a more complex response from society than simply a quest for their apprehension. Sooner or later, terrorists have to be dealt with in a different milieu, such as prisoners serving long sentences or as political opponents seated across a negotiating table. Believing inaccurate and misleading characterisations leads inevitably to damaging policies and deficient outcomes. Campaigns of violence are needlessly prolonged, property is wastefully destroyed, and people are maimed and killed. It is from this perspective that the concern arises with how researchers - and the policy makers guided by them - perceive the psychology of terrorists and of terrorism. This innovative book will be of great interest to students of terrorism and counter-terrorism, security studies, psychology and politics, as well as security professionals and military colleges.