WORD BOMBS: THE USE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNTER DOMESTIC VIOLENT EXTREMISM
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Authors
Chedester, Jeremy J.
Subjects
counternarrative
nudge
inoculation
propaganda
domestic violence extremists
DVE
right-wing extremists
left-wing extremists
white supremacists
boogaloo
anarchists
antifa
proud boys
reasoned action theory
social media
influence
behavioral analysis
social bots
artificial intelligence
violence
criminal behavior
nudge
inoculation
propaganda
domestic violence extremists
DVE
right-wing extremists
left-wing extremists
white supremacists
boogaloo
anarchists
antifa
proud boys
reasoned action theory
social media
influence
behavioral analysis
social bots
artificial intelligence
violence
criminal behavior
Advisors
McGuire, Mollie R.
Canan, Anthony
Date of Issue
2022-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis investigates how implementing strategic communications can counter domestic violent extremist (DVE) behavior in the United States. Strategic communications use counter-messaging based on research and intelligence of the group’s behaviors and perceptions. To develop strategic communications to counter violence, this thesis explores narratives, how they work, their persuasiveness, and how emotions play a role in influencing others. Extremists use social media to propagate images depicting violence and language promoting physical violence. This thesis explores inoculation strategies, nudge theory, psychological and social approaches, and counternarratives to counter DVEs. Reasoned action theory is used as a template for determining how background information, beliefs, and intentions form extremists’ behavior and action. Four case studies are presented using DVE group examples from anarchists, Proud Boys, Boogaloo Boys, and Atomwaffen. Each case study looks at the group’s ideology, violence, social media, demographics, and narratives to better understand the group’s themes. Next, using the reasoned action theory model as well as knowledge of the group and messaging theme, the thesis provides an example of how to craft a counternarrative. This thesis recommends that government and law enforcement invest in inoculation and nudge strategies as well as artificial intelligence, and create special strategic communication teams or units.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs (CHDS)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.