In this modern day and age of evidence-based practices, the question of WHAT WORKS is fundamental to the development of prevention and intervention programs, as well as the implementation of social and legal policies that aim to reduce violent radicalization. Despite the rise of “alternative facts” and narratives based on ideology rather than data, evidence-based practices remain those that have the highest chance of producing positive outcomes while avoiding negative unexpected effects.
The immediate scientific goal of CPN-PREV is to conduct five systematic reviews that will identify and support the best available models for assessing the risk of and countering violent radicalization. In doing so, the team aims to bring forward Canadian leadership and develop excellence in countering the phenomenon.
The systematic reviews conducted by CPN-PREV will answer the following key questions:
- 1st Systematic review: Online exposure
Can exposure to extremist online content lead to violent radicalization, and if so how?
- 2nd Systematic review: Prevention
What is the relative success of programs that aim to prevent violent radicalization among vulnerable populations?
- 3rd Systematic review: Intervention
What is the relative success of programs that aim to disengage individuals adhering to violent radical ideas/behaviors? Are there specific intervention modalities associated with a higher chance of success or failure?
- 4th Systematic review: Trajectories
What are the main trajectories of youth in and out of violent radicalization? What are the most significant markers of positive change or relapse? How can these inform case management?
- 5th Systematic review: Assessment
What are the main tools/procedures that are designed to assess violent radicalization? Are these tools reliable, valid, and useful? Can they lead to harms if used improperly?
- 6th Systematic Review: Online Harms
What are the impacts of exposure to/consumption of or active search/promotion of hate content in traditional and online media, specifically on processes of radicalization to violence, as well as other effects at the individual, community, and societal levels?