ANGER FROM WITHIN: THE ROLE OF EMOTIONS IN DISENGAGEMENT FROM VIOLENT EXTREMISM

Authors

Pete Simi, Chapman University
Steven Windisch, University of Nebraska Omaha
Daniel Harris, University of Nebraska Omaha
Gina Ligon, University of Nebraska Omaha

Abstract

"There is growing recognition about the similarities between generic criminality and violent extremism. Using data derived from a unique set of in-depth life history interviews with 40 former U.S. white supremacists, as well as previous studies of criminal desistance, we examine the emotional valence that characterizes actors' descriptions of the disengagement process. More specifically, results suggest that negative emotions (i.e., anger and frustration) directed toward the extremist group and oneself function as a catalyst for disengagement. Negative emotions become a source of motivation in re-evaluating the relative importance of the group as it relates to the individual. Ultimately, the reevaluation of the group is essential to the decision to disengage from violent extremism."

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.

Recommended Citation

Simi, Pete; Windisch, Steven; Harris, Daniel; and Ligon, Gina (2019) "ANGER FROM WITHIN: THE ROLE OF EMOTIONS IN DISENGAGEMENT FROM VIOLENT EXTREMISM," Qualitative Criminology (QC): Vol. 7: No. 2, Article 2.
Available at: https://dc.swosu.edu/qc/vol7/iss2/2