Self‐representation and future perception of youth followed by a specialized intervention team in violent radicalization

Abstract In response to the increase in ideological and non‐ideological mass killings, mental health professionals are beginning invest prevention intervention violent radicalization situations. The psychological psychiatric literature proposes multiple theories describing individual factors at play process of radicalization: loss meaning, responses humiliation, dehumanization other as well serious identity problems often mentioned, but little is known about self‐representation individuals attracted or involved radicalization. This qualitative study aims giving a sense complexity texture experience radicalized youth (18–30 years old), followed by specialized clinic Quebec (Canada). Ten patients, 18–30 old, significant age group for formation, were recruited study. An art‐based method (self‐portrait with collage) projective testing (the Thematic Apperception Test) used elicit psychic representations patient their document time perception. results show that idealization devaluation processes central these patients' associated adverse childhood experiences. Regarding perception, many participants spontaneously drawn toward nostalgic past, manifesting difficulties anchoring themselves present imagining future. These confirm vulnerability this clientele methods perceived more soothing than threatening. Clinical implications, tools approaches help evaluate intervene discussed.