Systematic Review of Trajectories Out of Violent Extremism: Toward a Model of Disengagement Based on Cumulative Disillusionment

Sébastien Brouillette-Alarie; Émeraude Lapointe-Provost; Traian Toma; Ghayda Hassan; Sabrina Charikhi; Nour El Houda Belmabrouk; Rania  Ikram Djermane; Wynnpaul Varela

Authors

Sébastien Brouillette-Alarie Université du Québec à Montréal
Émeraude Lapointe-Provost Université du Québec à Montréal
Traian Toma Université du Québec à Montréal
Ghayda Hassan Université du Québec à Montréal
Sabrina Charikhi Université du Québec à Montréal
Nour El Houda Belmabrouk Université du Québec à Montréal
Rania Ikram Djermane Université du Québec à Montréal
Wynnpaul Varela Université du Québec à Montréal

Keywords:

Violent Extremism, Violent Radicalization, Desistance, Disengagement, Social Reintegration, Deradicalization, Trajectories, Pathways, Systematic Review

Abstract

Understanding why individuals disengage from violent extremism is as important as understanding why they become involved in it. While research has largely focused on pathways into radicalization, knowledge about exit trajectories is essential for informing secondary and tertiary prevention efforts. This review aimed to synthesize empirical research on desistance from violent extremism in order to identify key factors, obstacles, and turning points shaping exit trajectories and to develop an empirically grounded model of social reintegration. Following Campbell Collaboration guidelines adapted to the prevention of violent extremism literature, we systematically searched academic databases and gray literature for primary empirical studies on trajectories out of violent extremism published up to December 31, 2023. Due to methodological heterogeneity and the predominance of qualitative studies, the synthesis combined descriptive mapping with AI-assisted thematic analysis. A total of 149 studies met the inclusion criteria out of 14,863 records. The synthesis suggests that desistance rarely results from a single turning point but instead reflects the gradual accumulation of internal tensions and external pressures that generate disillusionment and, in turn, create openings for change. Sustained desistance is supported by relational and structural resources such as family relationships, vocational training, or reintegration programs, which provide alternative sources of identity, belonging, and purpose. However, reintegration remains fragile when individuals encounter stigma, social exclusion, or continued exposure to extremist milieus. Overall, the findings highlight that desistance from violent extremism involves the reconstruction of identity and social belonging, with patterns that overlap with broader desistance models in criminology and related fields.

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