Video Games Interventions to Reduce Radicalization and Violent Extremism in Young People: A Systematic Review.

This systematic review examines the use of video game-based interventions to prevent and reduce extremism and violent radicalization among young people. Analyzing six studies from various countries, the review finds that such interventions can decrease prejudiced attitudes, foster prosocial behaviors, enhance empathy, and build resilience, particularly when incorporating diverse nonplayable characters and immersive perspective-taking techniques like virtual reality. While results suggest video games hold promise as educational tools to promote tolerance and counter extremist narratives, limitations include small sample sizes, methodological variability, and a lack of long-term studies. The review highlights the need for further research to optimize game design and evaluate sustained impacts on reducing radicalization and fostering social inclusion.