Violence for violence’s sake: the new extremism that has experts concerned

Violence committed or threatened by young people without a clear ideological, religious or political motive is an emerging threat, experts have warned.

University of Queensland criminologist Professor Adrian Cherney led a review examining the rise of Nihilistic Violent Extremism (NVE), and the significant challenges it poses for traditional interventions. 

“Acts of violent extremism have historically been underpinned by ideological radicalisation, but we’re now seeing cases in which the violence itself appears to be the primary attraction,” Professor Cherney said. 

“Instead of having a political or religious goal, the emphasis is on spectacle or notoriety.

“The perpetrators want to create chaos and collapse, fuelled by harmful online communities and subcultures that normalise and celebrate violence.

“NVE can be a way to gain validation, status or acceptance in those groups.” 

Professor Cherney said vulnerable young people were particularly susceptible to being drawn in.  

“Social isolation and a search for identity and belonging can be common factors, along with emotional drivers such as loneliness, hostility and contempt,” he said. 

“In many cases there’s also a history of trauma, abuse, bullying or family dysfunction, leaving the young person vulnerable to harmful online influences.

“It is complex because the person can present as both a potential perpetrator of serious violence as well as a victim of exploitation.”

The study found NVE poses major challenges for existing tools and models to counter extremism.

“The frameworks used to identify someone at risk can require evidence of extremist ideology before intervention occurs,” Professor Cherney said. 

“But many NVE cases don’t fit that category so there is a risk someone who should be flagged with the appropriate authority could go undetected. 

“We recommend a broader approach which considers other factors alongside traditional indicators of radicalisation, like behavioural warning signs, online signalling and a fascination with violence.”

The study found greater integration across youth justice, child protection, education and law enforcement is critical to assess risk, determine appropriate interventions and refer young people to support services.

Professor Cherney said appropriate training, support and skills for frontline professionals dealing with NVE cases was also crucial.

“This can include people working in areas like youth justice, child protection, education and law enforcement,” he said.

“Repeatedly encountering distressing content and behaviours can place new demands on their emotional resilience and professional judgement.  

“It can contribute to burnout and desensitisation and potentially compromise the quality and appropriateness of the interventions they deliver.”

Professor Cherney said understanding of NVE was still evolving, but necessary to prevent harm and support vulnerable young people away from violent pathways.

Read the research in The Journal for Deradicalization.

Collaboration and acknowledgements