The Interviews

Chapter 5 discusses the research methodology utilized to examine hypotheses about the different phases of the German extremists’ journey, as derived from the theoretical framework described in Chapter 4. Specifically, interviews were conducted with individuals who were formerly members of right-wing extremist organizations, but who have since left these groups behind. The chapter discusses important demographic characteristics of the interviewees, relating these characteristics to what is known about the demographics of right-wing extremists in Germany. Details of the interview process, as well as reasons for interview decisions, are discussed. Finally, the methodology used to content analyze the interviews is described, including details about the coding process and the calculation of interrater agreement.