| The psychology of terrorism deals with
questions regarding: |
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§How
& why do people become terrorists?
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§What characterizes those
who do?
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- Do they have common
personality-traits or sociological attributes?
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- Are they mentally
unbalanced?
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- Are there typical
trajectories leading to membership of a terror organization?
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- How are people and
society affected by terrorism?
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| Problems with the psychology of
terrorism:
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One problem with the psychology of terrorism is that
there has been a large number of articles and books published on the
psychology of terrorism, especially since September 11.
This might give the impression that there is a fair amount of
information and knowledge available, but for the most part the
information is not scientific.
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Another problem is that no one is a terrorist in their
own eyes. There are no
satisfactory guidelines for classifying people as terrorists or
combatants. Whether they are seen
as freedom-fighters or terrorists depends on their own eyes.
It is also important to remember that according to some classical
studies on authoritarianism, over 80% of us are willing to carry out
appalling things when we are given orders to do so.
Who then is a terrorist?
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Four
Psychological Hypotheses on the Antecedents of Terrorism (click on each to
learn more):
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| How are people affected by terrorism? |
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Terrorism evokes a
fundamental fear of helplessness, vulnerability, grief, destruction, &
harm. It is by these fears that terrorists seek to hold society
hostage. Because these violent acts are random, unprovoked, and
intentional, and often are targeted at defenseless citizens, a chain of
destructive psychological events can be set off. The fear of
strangers or foreigners, otherwise known as xenophobia, can be heightened
because of a terrorist attack. This can cause distrust between
different groups of people of the same citizenship.
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After a terrorist attack, people may experience recurring
thoughts of the incident. They may become afraid of everything and
isolate themselves from the world. They may stop usual functioning
and daily routines. They may experience a tremendous sense of loss
and a reluctance to express their feelings. They may also experience
a sense a loss of control over their own life. Actual victims of a
terrorist attack may experience survivor guilt. The victim may
question why he or she survived.
Information retrieved from the
APA
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According to the APA, there
are several ways to cope with trauma due to terrorism, including: |
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| Identify the feelings you may be
experiencing; remember that you have overcome adversity and trauma in the
past; talk to other and do not be afraid to ask for help; make an effort to
maintain your usual routine; try to think positive; try to recognize that
the nature of terrorist attacks creates fear and uncertainty about the
future; know the actions the government is taking to restore safety and
security; and limit your exposure to media coverage |
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Other psychology related links:
Society for Personality and Social Psychology
The Sociology and
Psychology of Terrorism: Who Becomes a Terrorist and Why? |
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