Overview

The task of Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) is complex, and has captured global, national and state-wide attention and resources. While there are controversies regarding the approaches, measurement and success of CVE efforts, the ultimate goal is universally shared: to prevent the use of violence as a means to achieve a political, religious or ideological end.  

As psychologists, we face the challenge of contributing to the building of a cohesive society where those who are vulnerable to radicalisation receive support, treatment and interventions appropriate to their risk and needs, while balancing the safety of the community and the civil liberties of the client, all within the confines of our ethical standards.

The Australian Psychological Society has received funding from the government to develop an online package to train psychologists in working with individuals at risk of violent extremism. This 10-hour eLearning training provides an introduction to key concepts, issues and principles related to violent extremism and radicalisation. In a stepped learning process, the training examines drivers of violent extremism, explores relevant individual factors and contextual issues that affect a person’s vulnerability and motivation, and identifies appropriate intervention and referral responses on the basis of client needs.

To get the most out of this training, it is recommended that participants spend approximately 2.5 hours on each module. There are a range of activities and readings throughout the modules to access and complete, to maximise learning.  

This series consists of four modules:

1. Introduction to Countering Violent Extremism

Outlines the foundational constructs and definitions associated with CVE, followed by a discussion of the role of psychologists in the context of countering violent extremism.  

2. Defensible decision making

Introduces the concept of defensible decision-making, and provides a decision-making framework aligned with the ethical principles inherent to the practice of psychology.

3. Prevention not prediction

Presents several theoretical frameworks that explore why some individuals progress down the pathway of radicalisation to commit an act of violent extremism. An understanding of various theories equips psychologists with the capacity to recognise vulnerability, while being aware that each person will have a unique pathway to radicalisation.

4. Assessing and responding to level of concern

Commences with a review of foundational information, including a discussion of key elements that function to protect individuals and communities from radicalisation. Then, the Module provides a practical step-by-step process to follow if you have a client who is showing signs that they are vulnerable to radicalisation.

Level of learning

Foundational. This activity is targeted to those new to the topic.

Duration of access

Access to this eLearning actvity is for 6 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This eLearning activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality.

Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process.

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Credits

The APS extends its thanks to the Expert Advisory Group and Reference Group for their assistance and guidance in the preparation of this training:

• Professor Alfred Allan (Edith Cowan University)
• Dr Michele Pathe (Swinburne University)
• Dr Jennifer McCarthy (Forensicare)
• Mr Christopher Gostelow MAPS
• Mr Andrew Hone MAPS
• Mrs Lisa Saint MAPS
• Ms Olivia Pownell MAPS

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this eLearning activity, participants should be able to:

1. Introduction to Countering Violent Extremism

• define violent extremism, radicalisation, and countering violent extremism;

• understand the global context of countering violent extremism, and

• understand the role of the psychologist in countering violent extremism.

2. Defensible decision making

• understand the role of prejudice and bias in ethical decision making,

• identify personal biases that may affect professional decision-making in the context of clients who might be vulnerable to radicalisation,

• outline the elements of defensible decision-making, and

• apply a decision-making framework to assist in resolving ethical dilemmas.

3. Prevention not prediction

• understand three theoretical models of the radicalisation process: McCauley and Moskalenko’s model of radicalisation The Staircase Model - The Quest for Significance,

• outline psychological underpinnings of the radicalisation process,

• understand the relationship between mental health and violent extremism,

• identify the role of the internet in radicalisation, and

• understand the concepts of de-radicalisation, disengagement and pro-integration.

4. Assessing and responding to level of concern

• outline the role of psychologists in countering violent extremism,

• understand the theoretical drivers of violent extremism and how to explore them with a client,

• apply the Behavioural Indicators Model to assess areas of need and level of concern, and

• determine treatment and referral response based on level of concern for a client who is vulnerable to radicalisation.