Background: There are a number of risk assessments available for different forms of violence (Kropp, Hart, Webster & Eaves, 1995 & 1999: Quinsey, Harris, Rice & Cormier, 1998). However, extremist violence is an area with limited research regarding the effectiveness of risk assessments. The Prevent Duty was introduced by the United Kingdom Government to support the prevention of terrorism.

Aim: To explore how professionals within Prevent understand and formulate a range of potential risk factors for different ideological groups.

Method: A Q-sort was used to explore the views and opinions of Prevent professionals. Thirty-nine statements were included within the Q-set. Participants were asked to complete the Q-sort in relation to Extreme-Right Wing ideology, Islamist ideology and No Specific ideology. Three factor analyses were completed on each Q-sort.

Key findings: ‘Associating with members of extremist groups’ was considered the most helpful statement for Extreme Right Wing and Islamist ideology There was no consensus on any other statements in terms of their helpfulness in risk assessing referrals. The findings suggest the need for a formulation-based approach, considering the presence and relevance of risk factors for individuals referred to Prevent.