Caitlin Hyslop-Margison

Criminology doctoral student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

During the first semester of my undergraduate degree, I decided, on a whim, to take a course on terrorism. From the first lecture, I knew that this was a topic that I had to continue to study. Since then, I have been involved in research projects investigating far-right extremism, white supremacist violence, violent extremism related to conspiracy theories, and incel (involuntary celibate)-related violence. My Master's thesis, a quantitative content analysis of an incel forum, attempts to explain how incels understand and justify violence motivated by incel ideology.

My goal is for my research to effect meaningful, tangible change, particularly in identifying protective factors that mediate risk factors for individual radicalization and in developing exit pathways and resources for individuals seeking to leave extremist groups.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

SFU's School of Criminology, aside from being one of the world's leading institutions in criminology and criminal justice studies, boasts faculty whose research is at the forefront of studies in violent extremism and terrorism. For this reason, there is a plethora of possibilities for research direction at SFU when it comes to studying these issues, and to be a part of producing work that is valuable, original, and cutting-edge.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research focuses on understanding why people engage in acts of violence motivated by political, social, or religious ideas, and helping protect people and communities from that kind of violence.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Terrorism, extremism, violence

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My research interests and identity have been molded by several courses I have taken throughout my undergraduate and graduate degrees, where I have been exposed to many new issues and ideas. My interests in these topics has been solidified through RA-ships where I have had the opportunity to help produce valuable data and develop meaningful insights into terrorism and violent extremism in Canada. On research teams, I have had the opportunity to work alongside many brilliant and forward-thinking people, to investigate violent extremism from multiple angles and perspectives, and to gain experience in working with large datasets and identifying themes and patterns in extremist activity. These experiences have been integral in shaping my research interests and goals.

Contact Caitlin:caitlin_hyslop-margison@sfu.ca