Journal of Psychology & Behavioral Science

Development and Validation of Indigenous Violent Extremism Beliefs Scale (VEBS)
Feriha N. Peracha, Asma Ayub, Raafia Raees Khan, Zaeema Farooq and Andleeb Zahra

Abstract
The validation and implications of an indigenously developed Violent Extremism Beliefs Scale (VEBS) is presented. The aim of this study was to develop a tool which can assess violent extremist beliefs. The item pool was generated from case studies of violent extremist offenders who have undergone successful Deradicalization and rehabilitation as well as violent extremist offenders still undergoing this (Deradicalization and rehabilitation) process, interviews of psychologists and social workers working with the identified groups, previous literature, books and cases studies of individuals involved in militancy in Swat region of KPK (Pakistan). The population selected for the validation of scale consisted of inductees a) who were present at deradicalization centers (specifically Sabaoon) and those who were re-integrated from the center. 31 items scale was administered to the selected population. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a four factors structure for the scale, that is, i) religious violence and extremism, ii) extent of positive thinking, iii) power politics, iv) risk taking and impulsivity. Present scale has significant importance for Pakistan, and globally. Violent Extremism Beliefs Scale (VEBS) can serve as assessment tool in the regions where terrorism and extremism are devastating issues and vulnerablewhich demand PVEeffortsthereforescreening could identify the level of vulnerability and also serve to highlightthe facets of intervention for correctional services.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jpbs.v5n1a7