A Clinical and Psychopathological Approach to Radicalization Among Adolescents.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Criminology

Background:

• Adolescent radicalization rates have risen since the 2000s.
• Radicalization prevention units established in French child and adolescent psychiatry since 2015.
• Understanding the psychopathology of radicalized youth is crucial for effective intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the psychopathology, family dynamics, and trauma history of adolescents exhibiting "radical conduct."
• To analyze clinical data from 20 adolescents treated in a university child psychiatry department.
• To identify common characteristics and risk factors associated with adolescent radicalization.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of clinical data from 20 adolescents with "radical conduct."
• Review of child psychiatry consultations, therapy records, and psychological testing.
• Examination of psychopathology, family characteristics, and traumatic experiences.

Main Results:

• Four adolescents presented with radical conduct associated with delusional syndromes (schizophrenia or substance-induced psychosis).
• The remaining 16 adolescents showed no psychotic conditions.
• Common factors included intrafamilial violence, sexual abuse, family imprisonment, traumatic histories, and family dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Adolescent radicalization involves diverse psychopathological profiles, influenced by psychosis, gender, and violence attraction.
• Family violence, abuse, and trauma are significant contributing factors.
• Child and adolescent psychiatry offers a vital pathway to counter violent extremism and support disengagement from radical commitment.