Program Effectiveness: Case Studies in Mitigating Radicalization Case Study 1: Identity Seekers – Finding Belonging Through Sports Programs Identity seekers are drawn to extremist groups to fulfill a deep desire for belonging and validation. Extremist organizations exploit this by offering a strong group identity, often tied to ideological or religious narratives. Sports can give identity seekers an alternative place to belong and alleviate isolation.
The More than a Game program, implemented in Melbourne, Australia, serves as a notable example of how team sports can address the vulnerabilities of identity seekers. The project was aimed at developing a community-based resilience model using team sports to address issues of identity, belonging, and cultural isolation among young Muslim men in order to counter violent extremism. The findings highlight that sports offer an opportunity for youth to develop soft skills and life skills that foster cooperation and sportsmanship and promote respectful competition and experiences to manage conflict.
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