Interview Techniques & Interrogation Methods Flashcards

Which psychological principle explains why people tend to confess more readily when they perceive the consequences of confessing as minimal or when offered justifications for their behavior?

Answer: Minimization

Minimization is an interrogation tactic that involves downplaying the seriousness of the offense or offering moral justifications to reduce the perceived consequences of confessing.

What is 'Statement Validity Analysis' (SVA) used for in investigative interviewing?

Answer: Assessing whether a statement is likely based on genuine experience

SVA is a structured method for analyzing the content of a statement to assess whether it likely reflects a genuine experience rather than a fabrication.

During a proffer interview, a subject agrees to provide information in exchange for potential immunity or leniency. Which of the following is a key agent responsibility in this context?

Answer: Ensuring the subject understands the terms and limitations of the proffer agreement

Agents must ensure the subject fully understands what is and is not protected by the proffer agreement, as any misrepresentation can jeopardize the investigation and prosecution.

An agent notices that a subject's verbal account of an event is inconsistent with their earlier written statement. The best immediate response is to:

Answer: Note the inconsistency and ask the subject to clarify or explain the discrepancy

Asking the subject to clarify the discrepancy allows them to explain, potentially revealing additional information, and preserves a professional interview dynamic.

Which of the following best describes 'active listening' as an interview technique?

Answer: Fully concentrating on, understanding, and responding to the speaker with verbal and non-verbal feedback

Active listening involves full engagement with the speaker through eye contact, nodding, verbal acknowledgment, and reflective responses that encourage further disclosure.

When planning a subject interview in a financial fraud investigation, what is the primary reason an agent should review all available financial records beforehand?

Answer: To identify inconsistencies and prepare targeted questions based on the evidence

Reviewing financial records beforehand allows the agent to identify inconsistencies, recognize when the subject may be deceptive, and ask targeted, evidence-based questions.