This Brief provides a theoretical and conceptual development of a new
Risk Assessment Toolbox (RAT) for the early detection of violent
extremists. It is based on a neurocognitive perspective, conceptualized
as 'neuroplasticity-in-action' arising from brain-based neural patterns
expressed in mind-based cognitive pathways likely to form a mind-set of
violent extremism. This neurocognitive-based Risk Assessment Toolbox
(RAT) is comprised of two distinct components: a cognitive indicators
instrument that serves as an early detection checklist for trained
practitioners, and a software visualisation program.
The Brief includes: A framework of contemporary approaches to the risk
assessment of violence as well as the background context for the current
research project on 'violent extremism' and its related concepts of
'terrorism' and 'radicalisation, ' out of which the RAT was developed. A
detailed overview of RAT and a pilot case study experiment to highlight
the practical value and utility of this neurocognitive Risk Assessment
Toolbox. Preliminary research findings of a study conducted with a
sample of recognized experts (academics and practitioners) in several
countries around the world, to fine tune and validate the risk
parameters of the two components that constitute RAT (Risk Assessment
Toolbox). The current stage of development of RAT as a
practitioner-based system for the early detection of potentially violent
extremists as well as its strategic intelligence implications for using
a neurocognitive risk assessment approach to violent extremism is
discussed. Research limitations and plans for future research studies.
This work will be of interest to researchers in Criminology and Criminal
Justice interested in studying violent extremism, terrorism and crime
prevention and intervention and policing, as well as researchers in
related fields of Forensic Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience and Social
Work or Social Intervention.
