Foreword

The issue of radicalization and terrorism has never been more important than it is today. Everyone has an opinion, and the lack of a coherent and holistic approach potentially puts us all at risk. This book looks at this crucial topic in a systematic and structured way. It shines the light of psychiatry into its many dark and poorly understood recesses, and it is my honor to write the Foreword to this exciting book. The Introduction covers some useful definitions and sets the scene. Chapter 1 explores the social and cultural aspects of radicalization, which then provides a solid foundation for the rest of the book. There are two chapters that explore the role of psychiatry in much greater depth, including a psychiatric analysis of radicalization and, importantly, the role of other mental health professionals, two areas that have been very much neglected in this critical debate. In addition, although men have featured very prominently in discussions about radicalization, Chapter 2 very thoughtfully explores these issues in both women and children. Chapter 3 reviews the phenomenology of lone wolf radicalization and, in particular, digs deeper and helpfully into areas such as emotions, thoughts, and beliefs relevant to this discussion. The final chapter pulls together ideas for future research and makes some sensible suggestions for moving this whole area forward. This is a succinct and meticulous book that tackles this topic in a logical and well-thought-out way. I am also extremely pleased that the book is grounded in clinical psychiatry and seeks to understand the issue of radicalization through clinical analysis, research, and evidence-based data. The focus is very much on attempting to understand the lone wolf within their personal and social context, and this approach, in my view, is much more likely to be a productive way to find answers that help individuals, their families, and society more generally. The book brings together theory and practice and offers genuine solutions. The overall ‘feel’ of this book is one of expert knowledge within a holistic framework. The book will appeal to a wide readership, including professionals working in the field, clinicians, managers, and policymakers who want to refresh and update their knowledge as well as challenge their thinking about this subject.