Extremism and Addiction

So I read a really great article, "Inside the Radical, Uncomfortable Movement to Reform White Supremacists" which goes into the psychological challenges facing people seeking to leave white supremacist groups, such as the KKK.

A lot of the article compares addicts and extremists, almost saying that extremism is an addiction.

I've posted a specific section of the article referencing a psychological study, and am wondering what your thoughts are.

Does this minimize or normalize the actions of racist extremists?

Does it go too far comparing addiction and extremism?