ABSTRACT
A general framework consisting of three factual layers in understanding radicalization will be examined: micro and motivational factors, meso-sociological factors and macro factors. Data from the Spanish case will be used to underpin this framework. This chapter examines the factors related to the process of Islamist radicalization more specifically by looking at three categories of indicators (psychological, close relational context and broader structural elements), in order to underline the need to design prevention and early identification mechanisms. The proposition that these mechanisms should be at the core of public policies in the fight against Islamist terrorism in national territories is one of the underlying assumptions of this exploration. Defense policies are crucial, but, when applied without a thorough understanding of the phenomenon they are dealing with, can generate greater threats and stimulate long-term radicalization processes. Bearing in mind that jihadist terrorists make up a global reticular network, the sociological prism through which all this work is structured (despite its focus on Spain) is nourished by knowledge and experience from abroad.
