HATE AND RADICALIZATION EMOJIS Hate refers to an intense feeling of hostility or aversion towards individuals or groups based on their characteristics, beliefs, or actions. Radicalization is the adoption of extreme ideologies or beliefs by an individual(s) that challenge or reject mainstream societal norms. Both hate and radicalization have significant negative consequences for individuals and society as a whole. Radicalization does not happen overnight. It is an evolutionary process, much like the pathway to violence, where individuals move through different stages of exposure. However, just as with violence prevention, early identification and intervention can disrupt this trajectory before it escalates. Radicalization is shaped by perceived injustices or grievances, exposure to extremist content, and justification from like-minded co-conspirators. While radicalization can happen to individuals of any age, youth are particularly vulnerable due to the way they navigate identity, emotions, and social belonging. The adolescent brain is wired for exploration, risk-taking, and seeking validation. If a young person is struggling with risk enhancers like isolation, rejection, or no healthy mature adult to connect with, they may be drawn to communities that provide structure, meaning, and a sense of belonging – even if those communities promote harmful beliefs. This process can start in the digital space, where grievances are often validated. A young person who feels socially excluded may join a gaming community, online forum, or a niche group chat, believing it to be a safe space to connect with others. However, extremist narratives can seep into these spaces. Over time, exposure to these messages can create a dangerous feedback loop, reinforcing the idea that their perceived injustices and grievances are the result of an external enemy – whether it be another social group, government institutions, or society as a whole.
9
Powered by FlippingBook