Stefanska, Ewa B. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5685-0763 and Carter, Adam J. (2026) More alike than unlike? Comparing characteristics of violent and non-violent extremist offenders. Behavioral Sciences of Terrorism and Political Aggression. ISSN 1943-4472 (Print), 1943-4480 (Online) (doi:10.1080/19434472.2026.2646197)

Preview

PDF (Open Access Article) 52789 STEFANSKA_More_Alike_Than_Unlike_Comparing_Characteristics_(OA)_2026.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives. Download (742kB) | Preview

Abstract

This study examined the characteristics differentiating violent from non-violent extremist offenders, focusing on established risk factors. The sample comprised 163 male offenders convicted of terrorism-related offences or extremist-motivated crimes within His Majesty’s Prison Service in England and Wales. Participants were categorised as violent or non-violent based on their index offence, with risk factors coded from ERG22+ reports and related file information. Results indicate that violent extremist offenders were more likely to have histories of previous violence, interpersonal difficulties and pro-violent attitudes, whereas non-violent offenders exhibited a higher prevalence of major mental disorders. Analyses by ideological subtype revealed distinct patterns: violent Islamist offenders were more likely to endorse violent attitudes, while non-violent counterparts showed increased mental health vulnerabilities; among right-wing extremists, violent offenders displayed elevated antisocial behaviour and prior violence. These findings underscore the complex interplay of behavioural histories, attitudes and psychological factors influencing violent extremist behaviour. The study highlights the importance of targeted, nuanced risk assessments and contributes to the limited literature directly comparing violent and non-violent extremist offenders. Understanding these distinctions within the legal context, where preparatory actions can also constitute offences, has important implications for risk management and intervention strategies.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	violent extremist offenders, non-violent extremist offenders, ideological differences, interpersonal difficulties, Islamist extremism, right-wing extremism
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development > Centre for Inequalities Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > School of Human Sciences (HUM)
Last Modified:	30 Mar 2026 15:21
URI:	https://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/52789

Actions (login required)

View Item

Downloads