Fostering Communication At Home Can Prevent Radicalisation Among Youth: Parenting Workshop

The Straits Times

21 March 2021

Parents can play a part in preventing radicalisation among youth by fostering positive communication and observing behavioural changes at home. The online workshop “Raising Harmonious Youths” was held to create awareness among parents and youth on the signs and symptoms of radicalisation and ways to prevent it. During the question-and-answer segment, parents asked how they could effectively discuss sensitive topics with their children and also ensure they were not accessing negative and radical content online. “You have to make time to listen to the youth’s concerns, whether (you are) on public transport, in the car, while watching television or having a meal. Communication does not mean it’s just verbal, it can also be non-verbal. Parents can notice if their children are behaving erratically from their actions even if they do not speak about it,” said Mr Ahmad Saiful Rijal Hassan, an Associate Research Fellow at the RSIS. Noting how digital content pervades most aspects of life through multiple gadgets within and outside the home, Mr Ahmad added: “What we are seeing now is that global issues become local issues. So what is happening out there will affect our people here in Singapore. Building resilience and creating awareness will mean that young people are better protected from extremism.” Mr Muhammad Saiful Alam Shah, also an RSIS Associate Research Fellow, said one tell-tale sign of extremism is embracing symbols that have been adopted by radical movements, but there are other signs to look out for. “If your peers, friends or children identify with such symbols, do not jump the gun but instead look out for further signs. For example, are they discreet in their activities or isolating themselves, spending too much time online? These are some things to look out for. “They may start detaching from the family before going on to withdraw from the society, these are further signs of indoctrination,” he added.

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Last updated on 04/05/2021