Recent, seemingly disconnected acts of violence–including school shootings in the US, stabbing sprees in Sweden, and attacks in nearly a dozen other countries–have been linked to online communities centered around nihilistic worldviews (the rejection of all religious, moral and social values, often accompanied by a belief that life is meaningless). Although these subcultures can produce outcomes similar to ideologically-motivated extremism, their goals, worldviews and motivations differ from classic ideological movements. This presents distinct challenges for prevention and safeguarding.

Rooted in ISD research and casework, this guide summarizes the characteristics and behaviors that may indicate participation in a subculture of nihilistic violence, along with events or conditions that could mobilize an individual to violence. It also provides practical considerations for parents, teachers and frontline practitioners.