The polarized state of public discourse and the toxic rhetoric of fear continues to be harmful to prevention efforts across the spectrum of extremism. This paper attempts to explore prevention methods in the United States, including current gaps, challenges, and opportunities for alternative approaches. In particular, it is an attempt to rethink messaging strategies that are relatable, culturally appropriate, and scalable to better connect individuals with existing social prevention services. In an effort to explore strategic messaging, this paper delves into the Strategic Operational Continuum to unpack the multilayered functionalities between the “social domain” and the “justice involved” spaces. Additionally, it explores the overall interconnectedness of these efforts and provides a demarcation of prevention activities in the social domain, while at the same time exploring strategic messaging approaches. The paper concludes with recommendations for a national messaging framework that can be tailored by localities and uniquely crafted to reach a diverse range of audiences.
Strategic Operational Continuum: Retooling Prevention
April 1, 2019
