PROJECTS
Bio-Markers and Counter-Messages: Measuring Individual Differences in the Influence of Extremist Propaganda and Counter-Messages
When discussing the phenomena of "radicalization", two areas remain relatively unexplored; the role of the Intenet and the role of emotion. By Partnering with SparkNeuro, in this project we are able to use a mixed-method psychological, neurological and biosocial/physiological design, we experimentally investigate the interaction of individual-level factors with the cognitive consequences of exposure to extremist propaganda. Specifically, we are specifically interested in investigating how different types of material interact with different "profiles" of the viewer. Read more.
Risk Assessment of Extremism
One of the most pressing questions facing the security services is identifying who, out of many potential threats, is actually going to engage in terrorist violence. In this project, using a combination of open-source data, and previously used risk assessment tools, we are investigating the process, issues and factors associated with being able to accurately identify high-risk individuals.
Seizing Optimum Opportunities for Action: Goal Conflict and Decision Inertia in Military Operations
How do people make hard choices? Harder still, how do people make hard choices when uncertainty is high, time is low, and the chance of any action leading to a positive outcome is unknown. In this study, and through a partnership with Tufts University and The U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center (NSRDEC), we explore the process of choice selection. Specifically, we seek to understand how these kinds of hard choices are made. While supporting general theories of decision-making, this research will also play a critical role in applied issues of selection, training, and leader development. Read more.
To view additional research projects The Center for Terrorism and Security Studies is working on please visit UMass Lowell's Research and Education page.