Assessing and Treating Radicalized Offenders

Abstract

Despite the historic prevalence of radical ideological thought, there is a relative dearth of research, examination, and exploration regarding this type of offender in a correctional setting. Indeed, it was not until after the events of September 11th that a more intensive examination of radicalization generally, as well as radicalization in a correctional context, was brought to bear. Consequently, the quantity (and arguably quality) of information that is available regarding radicalized offender populations, their characteristics, effective assessment and appropriate intervention is much less rich than would be for a carceral population such as women offenders, sex offenders, or the general offender population, although the field is steadily gaining ground. This chapter reviews the current state of affairs in regard to radicalized offenders. It informs correctional practitioners of issues, challenges, and considerations when developing management plans for ideologically-motivated individuals. This may include assessments of risk and options for intervention. It then contextualizes summaries of assessment and intervention considerations in theoretical frameworks. These offer potential avenues for psychological approaches while highlighting the requirement for a more comprehensive understanding of radicalization in order to address the unique needs and motivations of these particular offenders. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)