Term of the Month – Push and Pull Factors

In criminology, push and pull factors are conditions that lead people either toward or away from criminal behaviors or extremist ideologies.

Push factors generally comprise negative or adverse conditions that make crime or extremism seem like a good option. For example, social isolation might "push” an individual to join a gang. Pull factors entice individuals toward crime or extremism for the perceived benefits. For example, the desire to reinforce a social or religious identity might “pull” an individual toward a radical ideology aligned with that identity. Push and pull factors can also shape a person’s trajectory away from crime or extremism.

Related Resources

• Five Things About Individuals Who Engage in Violence Extremism and Similar Offenses 
• Domestic Extremism: No One-Size-Fits-All Approach to Disengagement From Extremism Activity or Beliefs, Study Finds 
• Five Things About the Role of Social Networks in Domestic Radicalization 
• Five Things About the Role of the Internet and Social Media in Domestic Radicalization 
• Desistance from Crime: Implications for Research, Policy, and Practice 

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