Journal: Conspectus
Volume: CONSPECTUS 33:1 (Apr 2022)
Article: The Influence Of Forgiveness On Radicalization Into Violent Extremism Among The Youth In Eastleigh Area, Nairobi County, Kenya
Author: Florence Wamahiga

Conspectus 33:1 (April 2022) p. 104

The Influence Of Forgiveness On Radicalization Into Violent Extremism Among The Youth In Eastleigh Area, Nairobi County, Kenya

Florence Wamahiga

Tangaza University College of Catholic University of Eastern Africa

About The Author

Dr. Florence Wamahiga Githuthu, a Christian, a married woman and mother of two children hails from a small town called Nyeri in central Kenya. She began her career as a civil servant in 1982 and worked for the Kenya Government for ten years before she began practicing psychological counselling. She has garnered much acclaim for her presence and service in Tangaza University College as a psychological counsellor. Florence is a finalist for a second prestigious doctorate award by the Institute of Social Transformation, Tangaza University College of Catholic University. She earned her first doctorate in 2007 from Washington International University (Doctor of Arts in counselling). She holds a master’s degree in Sociology (Counselling option) and two postgraduate diplomas, one in psychology from Amani counselling center and training institute and another in International Humanitarian Assistance from Fordham University, USA. [email protected]

This article: https://www.sats.ac.za/influence-forgiveness-radicalization-kenya

Abstract

Radicalization continues to pose a serious threat to security in the contemporary world. Youth are at risk of radicalization and recruitment to militant groupings. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate whether forgiveness can be used as an intervention to curb radicalization of youth into violent extremism. The study was guided by two theories: Relative Deprivation and Rational Choice Theories. Mixed method sequential explanatory design was adopted in the study. The target population was 460 people, aged 19–35 years, and 10 key informants. Purposive sampling was used to select St. Theresa’s Catholic Church and Riyadha Mosque. Census sampling was used to select 10 key informants. A sample size of 212 participants was used. Data was collected using Heartland Forgiveness and Extremism Scales. Data was analyzed using correlation analysis. The study found a weak, negative, and insignificant correlation. The study recommended close evaluation and monitoring of the teachings of certain institutions.

Keywords

radicalization, extremism, forgiveness, violence

1. Introduction

An inspiring area of research that made an appearance in the 1990s is the empirical investigation of forgiveness as an intervention in a variety of circumstances. Although the concept of forgiving is prehistoric, it has not been consistently investigated until relatively recently. It is imp...