Supporting political violence: The role of ideological passion and social network. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bélanger, Jocelyn J.; Robbins, Blaine G.; Muhammad, Hayat; Moyano, Manuel; Nisa, Claudia F.; Schumpe, Birga M.; Blaya-Burgo, Michelle
• Other Names: Gøtzsche-Astrup Oluf guest-editor.; van den Bos Kees guest-editor.; Hogg Michael A. guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Group processes and intergroup relations. Volume 23:Number 8(2020)
• Page Start: 1187
• Page End: 1203
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: passion -- radicalization -- social network -- violent extremism; Intergroup relations -- Periodicals; Social groups -- Periodicals; 302.305
• DOI: 10.1177/1368430220933954
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4302

Abstract

This research examines how social networks contribute to the process of radicalization, building on work showing that obsessive (vs. harmonious) passion for a cause is linked to greater support for political violence. Study 1 ( N = 331) shows that obsessive (vs. harmonious) passion is related to affiliating with radical (vs. moderate) social networks, which in turn is associated with support for political violence. Study 2 ( N = 381) provides experimental evidence for this phenomenon, by showing that inducing an obsessive mindset produces a greater proclivity to connect with radical activists, which in turn is associated with greater support for political violence. Drawing from social network analysis, Study 3 ( N = 366) shows that network density intensifies obsessively passionate individuals' affiliation to radical networks. The results offer insight into the group processes behind radicalization across different cultural contexts and ideologies.