ICST's research focuses on the social and behavioral aspects of terrorism. In particular, our research addresses five main themes:
The Psychology of Terrorism
Our signature research area examines the factors that lead individuals to become involved in, and disengage from, terrorist networks. Despite some progress, the social, psychological and cultural factors that attract and sustain individual involvement in terrorism remain poorly understood. A fuller understanding of these issues holds considerable promise for developing methods of reducing and controlling violent radicalization as well as promoting and facilitating disengagement from terrorist movements.
Group, Network and Organizational Behavior
Our second major theme is to explore the ways in which existing social science research on groups, teams and organizations can contribute to understanding how terrorist groups function, develop and end as a means of disrupting and countering the activities of these groups at the group, network and organizational levels.
Reactions to Terrorism
Our third major theme examines the reactions of individuals, groups, organizations and governments to terrorism, the threat of terrorism, and efforts to reduce terrorism. Understanding how and why different parts of the population react to terrorism and counterterrorism efforts is of critical importance both in the formulation and execution of effective counter-terrorism policy and operations.
Perception & Communication of Risk
Our fourth major theme examines the way individuals, groups, organizations, and governments perceive threats and risks associated with terrorism, and the way these risks are communicated. This research can contribute to the development of effective strategies for communicating about terrorism and for countering the terrorists’ message in a variety of settings.
Building Resilience & Limiting Harm
Our fifth major theme examines the process of building resilience among the potential targets of terrorism and limiting the potential harm associated with a terrorist attack. Approaches to building resilience can focus on individuals, families, groups, communities or nations; at all levels of analysis, the social and behavioral sciences show promise for developing effective interventions.