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Radicalization

Determining radicalization, which a change in the behavior, the psyche, and/or the motivations of a human being.  To my thinking most of those radicalized have a weak personality, or one not quite formed. It could be arising from a world of equivocation.  It could be from the arrival of a sense of mission and belonging. It can be a reflection of ancient information arising in childhood, from their church, from a friend, from a cleric, or from the Internet.   In fact, the Internet, so often attributed is not primary.  It is only the last stop in a sequence of steps.  Here is what I'd look for.  Warning: this is profiling.

1. Church attendance changes abruptly.
2. Change in friendships; change in family relationships.
3. Facebook page entries. 
4. Increase in secretiveness. Becomes withdrawn.
5. Spends increased time on the Internet.
6. Family testimonials this person was near and dear, just like always. Suspect the family.
7. Travels for locations far and wide and for lengthy periods.
7. Isolation at home.
8. Evidence of a new mentor, where there has never been any.

I could attribute all this to a long study of the subject, or perhaps like many, having taken a course in psychology.  But nope, it is merely a summary of what I've seen from the multitude of personality types we've all seen from those so apprehended.

However, one anathema in our country is about profiling.  You can't do it, no matter what.

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