A life-course analysis of radicalization among extremists in the Philippines using the life history calendar

Abstract

Scholarly investigation into the life trajectories of extremist and radicalized individuals is under-explored in terrorism research. This is primarily due to the logistical challenges inherent in accessing and interviewing radicalized individuals. Despite these challenges, some studies employing the life-course paradigm have emerged in scholarly journals over the past decade showing the utility of examining extremists' life trajectories, particularly changes in risks, social controls and bonds across the life course that led to radicalization. This study advances knowledge by analyzing trajectories across four developmental stages: childhood, adolescence, emerging adulthood and adulthood, using the Life History Calendar (LHC) to mark event dates across a life-course. Interviews were conducted in the Philippines of incarcerated and former extremists from the Islamic Abu Sayyaf (ASG) group, and the communist New People's Army (NPA) group. Results showed few adverse childhood events for both groups. Transitions into radicalization occurred across developmental stages but mostly during adolescence and emerging adulthood, triggered by unjust arrests for the ASG group, and targeted recruitment for the NPA group. This study highlights the importance of examining data from the global south to expand knowledge of diverse trajectories, triggers and transitions towards radicalization.