Utility and Effectiveness of the Context Manipulation Techniques: Police Investigators’ Perspectives

• DOI: 10.1007/s11896-020-09374-2
• Publication Date: 2020-03-04T18:02:47Z
• Authors: Katherine Hoogesteyn; Ewout Meijer; Aldert Vrij
• Keywords: Interview; Sample (material); Legal psychology

Abstract The foremost goal of conducting an investigative interview is to obtain as much accurate information possible. To achieve this, investigators employ a variety interviewing techniques. Kelly et al. (Psychol Public Policy Law 19:165–178, 2013) proposed taxonomy techniques, grouping them into six domains (i.e., Rapport and Relationship Building, Context Manipulation, Emotion Provocation, Collaboration, Confrontation/Competition, Presentation Evidence). In this study, we focused on assessing the Manipulation domain (e.g., considering seating arrangements, time day, clothing). Specifically, sought examine police investigators’ use beliefs about effectiveness context manipulation A sample 81 completed survey. Our findings provide evidence that believe setting have importance are already employing some techniques in their practice. Techniques mentioned most often were related arrangement, clothing, item availability for suspects water, coffee). This survey also provides receptive using practice, despite how little they currently taught during trainings. Understanding what be useful practice may implications future training, well (re)design rooms.