Terrorists, Victims and Society Psychological Perspectives on Terrorism and Its Consequences

Often disturbing, sometimes surprising and frequently disheartening, TERRORISTS, VICTIMS AND SOCIETY presents a clear and succinct view of what psychological research has revealed about terrorists and terrorism. Andrew Silke has gathered together contributions from psychologists and psychiatrists who have direct experience of researching terrorism, have met with terrorists and victims of terrorist violence, and with those responsible for combating and responding to terrorism. The result is a volume that provides a clear, intelligent and well-informed account of what psychology has learned in the past thirty years about issues relating to terrorism. It also demonstrates how one branch of social science can provide a powerful tool for insight and guidance on one of the most challenging problems facing the modern world. Essential reading for professionals in policing, security, government security agencies, forensic and legal psychology, prison and probation service and the military. It will also be important to all who are tasked with preparing for potential terrorist incidents, for example in mental health services, and a useful resource for students in psychology, criminology, politics and international relations.