Citation

Leistedt SJ. Forensic Sci. Int. 2013; 228(1-3): 21-27.

Affiliation

Laboratory of Psychiatric Research, Forensic Psychiatry Unit - Department of Psychiatry, Erasme Academic Hospital - Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium. Electronic address: samuel.leistedt@erasme.ulb.ac.be.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.02.004

PMID

23597734

Abstract

Behavioural and social sciences are useful in collecting and analysing intelligence data, understanding terrorism, and developing strategies to combat terrorism. This article aims to examine the psychopathological concepts of terrorism and discusses the developing roles for behavioural scientists. A systematic review was conducted of studies investigating behavioural aspects of terrorism. These studies were identified by a systematic search of databases, textbooks, and a supplementary manual search of references. Several fundamental concepts were identified that continue to influence the motives and the majority of the behaviours of those who support or engage in this kind of specific violence. Regardless of the psychological aspects and new roles for psychiatrists, the behavioural sciences will continue to be called upon to assist in developing better methods to gather and analyse intelligence, to understand terrorism, and perhaps to stem the radicalisation process.

Language: en