How Group Dynamics Evolve and Affect the Radicalization Potential of Far-Right Telegram Groups

Schwertberger, Ulrike ; Greipl, Simon und Rieger, Diana (2025): How Group Dynamics Evolve and Affect the Radicalization Potential of Far-Right Telegram Groups. 75th Annual Meeting of the International Communication Association, Denver, Colorado, USA, 12.-16. Juni 2025.

Abstract

In recent decades, radicalization of far-right groups has steadily increased. Social groups serve as particularly effective “radicalizers” through their social context, structure, and interaction patterns. While research supports the significant role of groups in shaping radicalization, little is known about these processes. This study aims to illuminate how radicalization occurs in, with, and through groups as a function of group dynamics. Based on a manual content analysis of group characteristics, dynamics, and radicalization indicators across 243 Telegram groups, preliminary findings indicate that structural and cooperative dynamics primarily drive interactions, potentially facilitating radicalization. Our research underscores the need for in-depth analyses of group dynamics to fully understand the escalation of extremism in online spaces.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Speech)
• Keywords: Radikalisierung; Telegram; Gruppendynamiken; Inhaltsanalyse; Konferenz ICA 2025, radicalization; Telegram; group dynamics; content analysis; Konferenz ICA 2025
• Faculties: Social Sciences > Department of Communications and Media (IfKW)
• Subjects: 300 Social sciences > 380 Commerce, communications and transportation
• Language: English