Surviving Extremism: A Parent’s Guide to Radicalization

Jeanette Manning – Surviving Extremism: A Parent’s Guide to Radicalization

When my seventeen-year-old daughter was recruited into white supremacy, I struggled to understand where, as a parent, I’d gone wrong. Who were they and why had she chosen them over the love of her family? I waged war against an unknown enemy, a movement I’d never heard of, with beliefs far different from those Lauren had been taught. But how do you save your child when you aren’t even sure they want to be saved?

For parents whose children are embroiled in today’s ever-changing face of extremism, the challenges are greater and more varied than those I faced years ago. Hate and extremism are epidemic, widespread and rampant, especially among youth who are searching to belong, to find their identity, to be “someone.” Families are being torn apart by extreme beliefs…but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Based on my experience as a Family Support Specialist, as well as research and guiding principles from well-established organizations, this “parenting manual” offers information, practical suggestions and real-life examples to help you cope during this emotional, painful period. There are no easy answers…but there is hope.