From WWI to ISIS, Using Shame and Masculinity in Recruitment Narratives

Researchers and observers have offered many reasons why people join terrorist organizations. Humans are complex and generally there is no single factor; explanations often span a range of social, geo-political, ideological/religious, and psychological reasons. In reference to psychology and ISIS’ terrorist propaganda, one consistently recurring theme is the emphasis on masculinity and humiliation. What is particularly interesting is how women and children are used to convey these messages to their mostly male audiences.