Online radicalism reaches boys as young as 12, new data shows
New AFP study of 55 teenage cases shows all were drawn to extremism online, with mixed, confused beliefs.
The AFP studied 55 young people aged 12 to 17. All were drawn to extremism, at least partly online.
All were male, targeted by violent Islam, white power, and anti-government ideas. Violent Islam stayed most common, but white power and anti-government beliefs are growing.
Many boys now hold no clear belief, instead mixing different ideas. Many came from stable families, contradicting the old idea that broken homes cause extremism.
In primary school, 13 per cent were kicked out. In high school, more than one-third were kicked out.
Nearly three in five had gotten mental health help.
- 55 aged 12 to 17
- Youth cases studied
- 13 per cent
- Primary expulsion rate
- More than one-third
- High school expulsion rate
- Three out of five
- Mental health intervention
Why it mattersEarly help could stop young Australians from turning to violence.
AustraliaYoung Australians face rising online extremism through social media and algorithms they use daily.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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