Understanding & Preventing Extremism in the Workplace

While diversity can strengthen an organization, strong or extreme beliefs in the workplace can be a two-edged sword. An employee's passion for a belief or cause might manifest itself as a real commitment to their employer or a project, but it can also create friction, erode workforce cohesion, and consume valuable resources when dealing with conflict. It can also lead to grievances that may lead someone toward the pathway to violence. In a highly polarized socio-political climate, employers must recognize the indicators of extremism in their workforce and seek to find a balance between allowing diverse opinions, even unpopular or comfortable opinions, and preventing conflict and potential violence in the workplace.

A presentation from the Extremism & Political Instability Community.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Participants will be able to describe the impact of extremist attitudes, beliefs and actions in the workplace.
• Participants will be able to identify the indicators of extremist beliefs, communication and action in the workplace.
• Participants will be able to explain proactive steps employers can take to mitigate the risk of extremism in the workplace and its potential for violence.

Presenter*

Steven M. Crimando, MA, CTM
Principal and Founder
Behavioral Science Applications, LLC

Steven Crimando is the principal of Behavioral Science Applications LLC. He is a Certified Threat Manager, a Certified Homeland Protection Professional, and a Certified Master Trainer with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-National Threat Evaluation & Reporting program. He serves on the Steering Committee for the Extremism & Political Instability Community (EPIC).

Mr. Crimando was deployed to the 9/11 and 1993 World Trade Center attacks, as well as New Jersey’s anthrax screening center and other acts of international terrorism. He is a published author who is frequently called upon by the media and the courts as an expert in crisis prevention and response. He provides training and support to multinational businesses, state and federal law enforcement, intelligence and military agencies, as well as NGO’s.