Dana Rovang

My security work has focused on the identification and application of narrative structures within media distributed by jihadi groups, and how these reflect and influence the personal and cultural identities of organizations, members, and potential recruits. I rely on a proven understanding and knowledge about history, film, media, video and media production, uses of propaganda, narrative structures, the fictional novel, the comic book, development of personal narratives and mythologies, and conceptions of surprise. I have analyzed over 500 ISIS and Al Nusra, and other jihadi propaganda videos to determine variations of message, methodology, and application of narrative structures.

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Building upon a narrative analysis of ISIS messaging and propaganda, I identified and created video clips to be used in an ongoing fMRI experiment to determine the influence of heroic narratives on the brain. My research was the basis for a major experimental program at the University of Chicago, where I created the video and clips used within the experiment.

 

I have created original videos and infographics using Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and InDesign. (See left sidebar for some examples.)

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Analyses and reports:

1) In-depth analysis of an organization's media and propaganda history, messaging techniques, medium, audience response, and technical aspects of video and social media.

2) In-depth analysis of video narrative structures.

3) Profiles of those currently in the legal system for terrorism related activities, with an emphasis on media and video consumption.

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An ABC7 Chicago report on my work below. This report reveals some of my preliminary findings about ISIS' "Heroic Martyrdom" and their video recruiting methods using Hollywood screenwriting techniques. 

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This research was funded by Minerva Initiative, Department of Defense

Chicago Project on Security and Terrorism, Research Director (2015-2016)