Dubai: Teenagers in the UAE believe that dysfunctional upbringing and a loss of identity are primarily responsible for some individuals in their peer group getting attracted to extremist ideologies.
The British government released a study last week that said that the age of 18 is the most susceptible period in a young person’s life wherein they could be lured into joining terrorist groups.
Gulf News spoke to teenagers in the UAE on what they believe triggers these extreme inclinations in their peer group. A loss of identity, a sense of not fitting in and dysfunctional upbringing were the main causes mentioned by them.
Most of the youngsters pointed to the impulsive nature of teenagers. “At this age, teenagers start questioning everything around them, mostly religion and values. They get attracted to what’s popular and controversial. They want to be unique, so they look for what is new, dangerous and adventurous,” said 19-year-old Lawrence Ayoub, a student at the American University of Sharjah.
Another teenager from the American University of Dubai attributed the choice to the fact that terrorists are clear in their agenda and such clarity appeals to some section of youth. “Youngsters try to find solidity, and extremists give them just that. For them, things are either black or white,” Farah Hamdy, 19, said.
She added that children exposed to violence at an early stage are more vulnerable and likely to subscribe to extremist thoughts later on in life. A preference for toy guns and enjoyment of violent video games are early signs of such manifestations, she believes.
Parental apathy and peer pressure can play a significant role in adding to the problem. Dr Mohammad Tahir, adult and child psychiatrist at Health Call clinic, Dubai, said that more and more adults are focusing on their career as opposed to dedicating enough time for their children. With adolescents’ natural urge to do something extraordinary, peer pressure can lure them on to the wrong path, especially in the absence of parental guidance.
“Teenage years are the most sensitive where one could easily get influenced,” said Dr Tahir. “This is the period when teenagers have unstructured thoughts, many dreams [they wish to pursue] and aspirations. Without the right guidance, they can deviate from the right path,” Dr Tahir said.
Al Anood Ahmad, a 22-year-old American University of Sharjah student, agrees. She noted that men are mostly influenced by cultural misconceptions that violence is a sign of a man’s strength. Yet, the fact that extremism is attracting females too, signals a bigger issue that needs to be looked into. “This is where miscommunication between parents and children can lead to violent aspirations. Extremists take advantage of girls not getting along with parents at this age. In return, they promise them the freedom and individuality [they have been craving for],” Al Anood said.
— The writer is an intern with the International Desk at Gulf News
