Marginalization of topos as a determinant of adolescent and youth extremism

Context and relevance. Adolescent and youth extremism is one of the alarming and aggressive characteristics of the modern topos and has important representative features. The primary feature of adolescent and youth extremism is the spiritual immaturity of adolescents and youth, the lack of formation of the perception of integrity, provoked by the problem of intergenerational alienation (generational conflict) of modern youth, the marginalization of society, being unable to comprehensively assess the situation. Marginal status is becoming the norm of existence for millions of people; marginality is a mechanism and condition of self-identification. Objective: the goal is to identify predictors of marginal topos that contribute to the emergence of youth extremism. Methods and materials. Two comprehensive studies were conducted: one involving 160 psychology students from TSU in their 1st to 4th years, and another involving 20 experts who were interviewed using a semi-standardized method to obtain data on respondents' awareness of extremism. The experts were surveyed using a formalized interview method. The studies were conducted twice: in 2023 and 2025. Results. The results of the study showed that psychology students' awareness of youth extremism influenced their attitudes toward this phenomenon. The vast majority of respondents (90%) condemned manifestations of extremism and terrorism, as well as the youth who commit them. Respondents believe that penalties should be increased (92%), and the same number support tightening the country's migration policy. Interviews with experts and surveys of psychology students indicate that a possible increase in extremist sentiments among young people depends on the political activity of the state and society related to the special military operation (SMO). Conclusions. The study indicated: a) the need for regular monitoring of youth extremism, as well as terrorism and other destructive manifestations; b) based on monitoring data, the timely identification of problematic social groups and their extremist-oriented leaders — carriers of extremist potential; c) creating attractive conditions for adolescents and youth for creative, constructive activities that promote positive socialization and help change young people's consciousness.