NCJ Number
213287
Journal
Studies in Conflict & Terrorism Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Dated: January-February 2006 Pages: 51-74
Date Published
January 2006
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This study drew on survey data from 14 Muslim countries to explore the characteristics of those who support terrorism.
Abstract
Results of summary statistics and regression analysis indicated that females, younger persons, and those who believed Islam was under threat were more likely to support terrorism in general and suicide terrorism in particular. Very poor individuals were less likely to support terrorism, as were individuals who believed religious leaders should take a more active role in politics. The authors found that while the characteristics of terrorism supporters remained stable, the effect of the characteristics varied throughout the 14 countries. The findings suggest that tailored, demand-side interventions should focus on highly-defined, country-specific populations. Data were drawn from the Global Attitudes Survey 2002, conducted in 14 Muslim countries by the Pew Institute between July and October 2002. Respondents were 7,849 adults who provided demographic data and answered questions regarding their support for terrorism, particularly suicide terrorism. Future research should consider conducting time-series panel data to fully examine the impact of socioeconomic (SES) factors on support for terrorism over time. Tables, notes