University under Risk: The University as Incubator for Radicalization

This paper examine the prevalence of radicalization beliefs and thoughts among university student, also it examines the differences in radicalization between males and females. A convenient sample of 190 students (Mutah University, Jordan) was selected. A measurement tool for the radicalization based on the literature review was developed. A reliability coefficient (Cronbach's alpha = 0.61) was found for the research tool. The average percentage of the prevalence of the radical beliefs was 64.4% among the university students. Radical beliefs like martyrdom, unity by force, hatred & jihad were highly prevailed among university students. Findings raised the attention to the university security and encountering radical beliefs dissemination among university students. Security policies are needed to prevent hijacking the university by radicalism, and transiting the university as incubator for radicalization and path to terrorism. Further researches are needed with large sample size and with more a testable research instrument.