Preventing violent extremism in youth through sports: An intervention from the 3N model. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moyano, Manuel; Lobato, Roberto M.; Blaya-Burgo, Michelle; Arnal, Neus; Cuadrado, Esther; Mateu, Daniel; Ramírez-García, Antonia; de Murga, Milena; Trujillo, Humberto M.
• Is Part Of: Psychology of sport and exercise. Volume 63(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Violent extremism -- 3N model -- Sport-based intervention -- PVE; Sports -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Exercise -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; Sports -- Periodicals; Exercise -- Periodicals; Societies, Medical -- Periodicals; Psychology; Sports; Exercise; Societies, Medical; Sports -- Aspect psychologique -- Périodiques; Exercice -- Aspect psychologique -- Périodiques; 613.71019
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2022.102283
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1469-0292

Abstract

Abstract: Preventive approaches have gained weight with regard to violent extremism. However, although the number of interventions aimed at prevention has increased, many of them do not have a solid theoretical basis and very few have been evaluated, so we do not know the real impact of these interventions. Based on these limitations, a sport-based intervention program was designed to prevent violent extremism. Using the 3N model of radicalization as a theoretical reference, the program was designed and implemented trying to influence the needs, narratives, and social networks of the participants. Thus, the objective of the present research was to evaluate the impact of the program, for which two studies were designed. The first study used a quantitative approach using questionnaires that were answered by the participants and by a control group. The second study used a qualitative approach that included open-ended questionnaires that were completed by the participants' referents. Both studies assessed the needs, narratives, and social networks of the participants. Overall, the results showed an improvement in social networks and differences in the effects on needs and narratives depending on the study. We conclude by highlighting the role of sports-based interventions in generating a sense of belonging and improving social support as preventive factors. Highlights: Sports can be a fundamental tool for the prevention of violent extremism. The use of sport-based interventions develops social networks. Sport-based interventions are an indirect way to minimize the risk of radicalization.