CFI Statement Analysis & Verbal Behavior

Question 1

In SCAN (Scientific Content Analysis), what does an examiner look for regarding the opening of a subject's written account?

Accepted Answer

Whether the narrative begins before the alleged incident

Answer

SCAN practitioners examine whether the prologue begins prior to the alleged incident, as truthful subjects typically provide contextual background before describing the critical event.

Question 2

In statement analysis, using hedging phrases such as 'I think,' 'I believe,' or 'I'm not sure' when describing events the subject directly experienced is referred to as:

Accepted Answer

Lack of conviction

Answer

Lack of conviction is evidenced by qualifying language that reduces certainty in areas where a subject with direct knowledge should be able to speak definitively.

Question 3

Which foundational principle underlies Criterion-Based Content Analysis (CBCA)?

Accepted Answer

Truthful accounts tend to score higher on credibility criteria than fabricated ones

Answer

CBCA is based on the hypothesis that genuine experienced events differ in content from fabricated or coached accounts, with truthful statements tending to contain more criteria-based content.

Question 4

In forensic statement analysis, spontaneous self-corrections made by a subject without prompting are generally considered:

Accepted Answer

A positive credibility indicator suggesting genuine recall

Answer

Spontaneous corrections are considered a CBCA positive credibility indicator because fabricators tend to rehearse a consistent story rather than naturally self-correct.

Question 5

What does 'temporal lacunae' refer to in statement analysis?

Accepted Answer

A gap or missing time period in a subject's account

Answer

Temporal lacunae are gaps or missing time periods in a subject's narrative that may signal areas of omission or deception requiring further investigative attention.

(CFI) Certified Forensic Interviewer Practice Test

(CFI) Certified Forensic Interviewer Practice Test

CFI Statement Analysis & Verbal Behavior