Video games as a postderadicalization program stabilizer: How they can serve as a long-term instrument to re-integrate exterrorists into society after completing deradicalization programs

Abstract

This paper investigated video games as a long-term instrument to reduce recidivism of exterrorists by re-integrating them into society after completing deradicalization programs. A literature review on the radicalization process, deradicalization and reconciliation programs, the recovery process for addicts, the social identity theory in relation to jihadists and gamers, gaming and social isolation, and whether or not violent video games lead to violent behavior was conducted. These are focal points that are necessary to explain why video games can serve as a good long-term after-care for ex-terrorists. This study found that jihadists join terrorist organizations to have a sense of belonging and to be part of a community. Deradicalization programs that have had some level of success employed the same components as rehabilitation communities for addicts, such as ensuring one-on-one relationships with counselors and psychologists within the programs, and maintaining or building contact with their family and friends during the program. I concluded that video games can help ex-terrorists be a part of society, as they create a strong social network of people with shared experiences in both the virtual and physical realm. Video games can help stabilize these individuals in the long-run by avoiding turbulent phases that trigger recidivism after their release from deradicalization programs.