NCJ Number
214236
Date Published
2006
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This chapter explains five rules of effective investigative interviewing contained in a model developed from research for the Surete du Quebec (Canada).
Abstract
The five rules are to keep an open mind and remain objective; build up a rapport; pay attention; keep a professional attitude; and know how to conclude. The first rule keeps interviewers from developing preconceived attitudes and beliefs about the person being interviewed. Research has shown that preconceptions block the eliciting of comprehensive and reliable information from the person being interviewed. Instead, the interviewer tends to focus on obtaining the information he/she believes the subject is concealing. The second rule, building up a rapport, pertains to facilitating the sharing of information between the subject and the interviewer. This occurs as the interviewer accurately perceives the verbal and nonverbal cues about what the subject is thinking and feeling and then interprets them back to the subject to show understanding and a willingness to be a sensitive listener. The third rule, paying attention, is an extension of the rule regarding rapport building. The fourth rule, keeping a professional attitude, refers to the consistent use of an interviewing style that research has shown produces results. A professional style of interviewing consists of active listening, empathy, openness, respect, and a willingness to perceive truth instead of attempting to force a confession through intimidation and pressure based on preconceptions about what is true. The fifth rule, knowing how to conclude, refers to the interviewer's decision that in the current time frame the subject is not willing or able to offer any more information relevant to the investigation. This does not preclude a subsequent interview, and does not contaminate the rapport that can be carried over to another interview. 3 notes and 53 references