The Psychology of Extremism

This volume examines the psychological factors, environments, and social factors contributing to identification with extremist identities and ideologies. Incorporating recent findings on interpersonal relationships, emotions, and social identity, the book aims to improve understanding of what makes individuals vulnerable to extremism. It concludes with a discussion of the intricacies of identification with extremist groups, a proposal for de-radicalization, and a call for awareness as a means to resist polarization.

Chapters highlight interdisciplinary research into specific concepts and behaviors that can lead to extremism, addressing topics such as: Homogamy, tribalism and the desire to belong Shared hatred in strong group identities

The impact of emotional contagion on personal relationships

Dehumanization across political party lines

An in-depth exploration of an increasingly divisive modern issue, The Psychology of Extremism is an essential resource for researchers and students across social psychology, sociology, political psychology, and political science.

Highlights research on the psychology of extremism from a variety of sub-disciplines Demonstrates thoroughly that extremism is not an isolated phenomenon, but rather a confluence of environmental and social factors Suggests methods for de-radicalization to disentangle the issues that extremism presents

Auteur
Dr. Katherine V. Aumer is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Hawai i-West O ahu, in Kapolei, HI. Formerly an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychology at Hawai i Pacific University, she received her PhD from the University of Texas, Austin. She has conducted research in the areas of emotion, relationship satisfaction, and racial identity, and her current research focuses on interpersonal relationships and identity issues concerning both culture and race, as well as the psychology of hatred.

Contenu

Chapter 1: Homogamy And Tribalism: How Our Desire to Belong Can Lead to Extremist Identification.- Chapter 2: Shared Hatred Bringing People Together and Bonding Us.- Chapter 3: Emotional Contagion and Our Relationships: Dealing with the Impact of Extremist Identities with Those We Love.- Chapter 4: Deplorables: Reciprocal Dehumanization across Party Lines.- Chapter 5: Identity, Extremism, and (De) Radicalization.