Marginalized Individuals and Extremism: The Role of Ostracism in Openness to Extreme Groups

Abstract

Does the experience of being socially ostracized increase interest in extreme groups? Drawing from the temporal need‐threat model of ostracism, and uncertainty‐identity theory, we conducted two experiments testing the hypothesis that compared to included individuals, ostracized individuals will show greater interest in extreme groups. In Study 1, following a recruitment attempt, ostracized participants expressed greater willingness to attend a meeting of an activist campus organization advocating reducing tuition. In Study 2, ostracized participants expressed greater openness towards gang membership. These findings emphasize the importance of leaders creating environments that minimize feelings of social exclusion, and suggest that approaches to international policy that exclude/marginalize (i.e., refusing to meet for negotiations) may produce greater extremity.

Exploring a pathway to radicalization: The effects of social exclusion and rejection sensitivity

“…Even though the research field of radicalization has grown rapidly over the last two decades, much research still relies on biographies and interviews with former terrorists (Borum, 2010). With a few notable exceptions, experimental research that increases the understanding of the radicalization process is still limited (Bäck et al, 2018; Hales & Williams, 2018; Knapton et al, 2015; Pfundmair & Wetherell, 2019).…”

Navigating COVID-19: Insights from research on social ostracism

“…After experiencing weeks or months in quarantine or rejection through job loss, people may turn to virtual mediums to connect with other frustrated individuals who are radicalizing online. People feel more uncertain and are more open to extreme groups after being ostracized (Hales & Williams, 2018). The subtle and overt rejection people are experiencing during the pandemic may lead them to see extreme groups as an appealing means to fulfill their deprived sense of belonging/self-esteem and threatened sense of control/meaning.…”

Leadership and Social Transformation: The Role of Marginalized Individuals and Groups

“…In the fourth and final article of this section, Hales and Williams () present two experiments ( N s = 51 and 75) investigating the ways excluded or ostracized ingroup members attempt to reconnect with their group. They discuss how leaders can foster a group atmosphere of inclusion to minimize feelings of marginalization or ostracism.…”