Psychosis in the context of radicalization and terrorism: a scoping review

Tijdschr Psychiatr. 2025;67(10):601-607.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In recent years, radicalisation has become an important concern. The radicalisation process is characterised by an ideological shift away from mainstream societal views and an increasing willingness to engage in violence. Psychopathology is considered an individual factor that may influence this process.

AIM: To explore what is currently known about the prevalence of schizophrenia spectrum or other psychotic disorders (SSOPD) in the context of radicalisation and aim to identify any individual or process-related characteristics associated with this combination.

METHOD: Scoping literature review.

RESULTS: Nineteen articles were included. The reported prevalence of SSOPD among radicalised individuals varied widely (3.8-75%). This variation can be partly explained by differences in methodology, sample selection, and definitions of key concepts. Higher prevalence rates were reported within the subgroup of lone actors. Regarding the radicalization process in individuals with a SSOPD, two distinct trajectories are described. One study suggests a less traumatic background in radicalised youth with a SSOPD compared to those without a diagnosis.

CONCLUSION: SSOPD may play a relevant role, particularly in individuals at risk of lone actor violence. Accurate psychiatric diagnosis is crucial in the prevention and management of radicalisation. Further research using standardised methods and longitudinal designs is needed to better understand the complex relationship between SSOPD and radicalisation.

PMID:41466587