Criminologists use surveys to study relationships between different factors that may influence criminal behavior. Surveys allow them to gather data from a large number of people and gain insight into attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. Criminologists may use surveys to investigate the relationship between demographic characteristics and likelihood of criminal activity, examine relationships between individual and societal-level factors and criminal behavior, and study relationships between different types of criminal behavior and underlying factors that may contribute to them. The information gathered from surveys can inform the development of strategies and policies aimed at reducing crime and improving public safety.