Family Apathy, Cyber Engagement, and Self-Radicalization in Lone Wolf Terrorism in Indonesia

Setyo Hermawan; Dhedi Ardi Putra; Supardi Hamid

doi:10.55927/fjst.v5i7.110

Authors

Setyo Hermawan Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kepolisian
Dhedi Ardi Putra Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kepolisian
Supardi Hamid Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kepolisian

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/fjst.v5i7.110

Keywords:

Family Apathy, Cyber Engagement, Self-Radicalization, Lone Wolf Terrorism, Significance Quest, Terrorism Prevention.

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between family apathy, cyber engagement, and self-radicalization in the escalation of lone wolf terrorism in Indonesia. It highlights the shift of terrorist threats toward more fluid, individualized, and decentralized forms, positioning the family as an upstream factor influencing vulnerability or resilience to extremist propaganda. The study uses a qualitative multiple-case study design based on secondary data, including academic literature, policy documents, institutional reports, and relevant case narratives. The analysis applies concepts of lone wolf terrorism, self-radicalization, cyber engagement, family apathy, the staircase to terrorism theory, significance quest theory, and shortcut to terrorism. Findings indicate that family apathy does not directly cause terrorism but generates psychological vulnerabilities such as alienation, identity crisis, and the search for personal significance. These vulnerabilities are exploited through digital spaces that accelerate self-radicalization. The study proposes a family apathy–cyber engagement–lone wolf escalation model and recommends family-based prevention strategies

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