NCJ Number
218363
Journal
Journal of Police Crisis Negotations Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Dated: 2007 Pages: 27-61
Date Published
2007
Length
35 pages
Annotation
This article proposes a method of determining terrorists' characteristics as part of terrorism prevention efforts.
Abstract
Terrorists have a complex set of social, psychological, ideological, religious, and political motives and behaviors. Because terrorists seek notoriety and attention, they tend to select targets that symbolize the power of their enemy or that will draw the attention of the global media. Prevention efforts should thus focus on the protection of and security measures for the targets likely to draw terrorists' interest. Terrorists tend to come from societies where people are in distress (economic, national, political, etc.), and they perceive their condition as being ignored or caused by those with the power to change their circumstances for the better. Being residents of a nation that supports or tolerates terrorist organizations is another risk factor for being a terrorist. Also, membership in known disenfranchised societies and groups within nations (Chechen nationals within Russia, Sunni Muslims in Iraq, Kurds in Turkey, Turks within Cyprus, etc.) is a risk factor for being a terrorist. Individual terrorists tend to have psychological profiles that include detachment from parents or the absence of a close bond to parents. This fosters a search for meaning and recognition that will provide a grandiose sense of self as "special," primarily as a psychological defense from a feeling of insignificance and not being loved. This often includes judgmental and antagonistic attitudes toward those who have different beliefs, values, and behaviors, because this threatens their own sense that they have superior attributes and beliefs. Further, terrorists will have intense and usually violent reactions to any perceived attack on or criticism of their beliefs and mission. This article presents the most likely psychological makeup and motivations of terrorists, based on their actions, selection of tactics and weaponry, selection of targets, public statements, and personal histories.83 references