Tiffin University professor breaks new ground in study on terrorism

Tiffin University psychology, counseling and criminal justice professor Jonathan Appel is receiving praise for an article on terrorism he recently published the Journal of Counterterrorism & Homeland Security.

Appel’s study concludes that more attention needs to be paid to the root causes of terrorism, which is a research topic of growing importance.

In “Terrorism as a Multidimensional Phenomenon: Implications for an Ethical and Legal Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Response,” Appel argues the causes of terrorism are various and multidimensional. That means academics and policymakers around the world need more comprehensive information on the factors that drive global terrorism. Appel breaks down the most important areas of study into various categories including societal impact of terrorism, prevention, and understanding extremist violence in today’s globalized context.

Appel writes that it is important not to oversimplify the myriad motivations that make people turn to terrorism. He also says the concept of terrorism isn’t static – it’s a dynamic phenomenon that is constantly developing. That, Appel writes, necessitates constant multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary study to ensure policymakers are equipped with the best intelligence and tactics to deal with the threat of terrorism.

A well-recognized expert on the evolving world of terrorism, Appel is currently writing a book entitled “The Psychology of Terrorism,” which is set to hit the shelves next year.