The intent of this practitioner guide is to better acquaint development practitioners with the use of
surveys in preventing or countering violent extremism (CVE). Surveys are an excellent way to gather
systematic data about violent extremism, as well as the behaviors and attitudes of the general public
or important segments of the population such as victims, potential perpetrators, and even extremists
themselves. They can capture information about the drivers of violent extremism and reveal which
are the most significant, in what areas, and among whom. When applied to programming, surveys
can improve the targeting and design of projects and can measure results.

This guide emphasizes that surveys are a powerful and flexible tool with many potential applications
to CVE. It also underscores what surveys cannot do, and acknowledges that surveys will often be most
effective when combined with qualitative and other quantitative methods. The advice provided will
help practitioners ensure that their surveys yield accurate, useful data about violent extremism while
gathering information ethically and safely.