5.5 Conducting sensitive interviews
9 min read•august 21, 2024
Conducting sensitive interviews requires a delicate balance of empathy and professionalism. Filmmaking journalists must navigate complex emotional terrain while maintaining ethical standards and protecting vulnerable subjects. This skill is crucial for capturing powerful stories responsibly.
Preparation is key to successful sensitive interviews. From thorough research and ethical considerations to creating a safe environment and building rapport, every step matters. Mastering questioning techniques, handling emotional responses, and respecting cultural differences are essential for eliciting meaningful responses while prioritizing the interviewee's well-being.
Preparation for sensitive interviews
- Conducting sensitive interviews requires thorough preparation to ensure ethical and effective journalism
- Filmmaking journalists must approach sensitive topics with care, balancing the need for information with respect for interviewees
Research on sensitive topics
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- Gather comprehensive background information on the subject matter
- Identify potential triggers or sensitive areas to approach carefully
- Consult experts or specialists in the field for deeper understanding
- Review previous coverage and interviews on the topic
- Analyze cultural, social, and political contexts surrounding the issue
Pre-interview communication
- Establish clear expectations with the interviewee about the interview process
- Discuss the purpose and scope of the interview
- Provide information on how the interview will be used in the final product
- Address any concerns or questions the interviewee may have
- Offer the option to review questions in advance if appropriate
Ethical considerations
- Evaluate potential risks and benefits of conducting the interview
- Consider the impact of the interview on the subject and their community
- Develop strategies to minimize harm and protect vulnerable individuals
- Consult ethical guidelines and journalistic codes of conduct
- Seek advice from editors or colleagues on ethical dilemmas
Interview environment
- The physical and emotional setting of an interview significantly impacts the quality of responses
- Filmmaking journalists must carefully select and prepare the interview space to foster openness and comfort
Choosing appropriate locations
- Select quiet, private spaces to minimize distractions and ensure
- Consider neutral locations that don't intimidate or influence the interviewee
- Evaluate lighting and acoustics for optimal video and audio quality
- Offer options to the interviewee when possible (office, home, public space)
- Ensure accessibility for interviewees with physical limitations
Creating a safe atmosphere
- Arrange seating to promote comfort and eye contact
- Minimize the presence of equipment and crew to reduce intimidation
- Provide water and tissues for the interviewee's comfort
- Establish clear boundaries for crew behavior and movement during the interview
- Create a calm, unhurried environment to encourage open communication
Privacy vs transparency
- Balance the need for privacy with journalistic transparency
- Clearly communicate who will be present during the interview
- Discuss any recording devices or cameras that will be used
- Explain how the footage will be stored and who will have access to it
- Offer options for anonymity or disguising identity if necessary
Building rapport
- Establishing a connection with the interviewee is crucial for sensitive interviews
- Filmmaking journalists must cultivate trust and understanding to encourage open communication
Active listening techniques
- Maintain eye contact to show engagement and interest
- Use non-verbal cues like nodding to encourage continued sharing
- Paraphrase or summarize key points to ensure understanding
- Allow for moments of silence to give the interviewee time to process
- Avoid interrupting or finishing the interviewee's sentences
Empathy and understanding
- Show genuine interest in the interviewee's experiences and emotions
- Acknowledge the difficulty of discussing sensitive topics
- Use a compassionate tone and body language
- Avoid judgment or criticism of the interviewee's actions or feelings
- Recognize and validate the interviewee's perspective
Establishing trust
- Be transparent about the interview process and intentions
- Follow through on any promises or agreements made
- Maintain professional boundaries while showing genuine care
- Demonstrate respect for the interviewee's privacy and comfort levels
- Build credibility by showcasing knowledge of the subject matter
Questioning techniques
- The way questions are framed and asked significantly impacts the quality of responses
- Filmmaking journalists must master various questioning techniques to elicit meaningful information
Open-ended vs closed questions
- Use open-ended questions to encourage detailed, narrative responses
- Employ closed questions sparingly for specific facts or clarifications
- Begin with broader questions before narrowing down to specifics
- Craft questions that invite reflection and personal insight
- Balance between fact-gathering and emotion-exploring questions
Follow-up questions
- Listen carefully to responses to identify areas for deeper exploration
- Ask for specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate points
- Use probing questions to clarify ambiguous or vague statements
- Encourage elaboration on key themes or emotions mentioned
- Be prepared to deviate from prepared questions to follow important leads
Avoiding leading questions
- Frame questions neutrally to prevent biasing the interviewee's response
- Refrain from including assumptions or judgments in the question
- Ask "how" and "what" questions instead of "why" to reduce defensiveness
- Avoid suggesting answers or providing options within the question
- Be aware of non-verbal cues that might influence the interviewee's response
Handling emotional responses
- Sensitive interviews often evoke strong emotions in interviewees
- Filmmaking journalists must be prepared to manage and respond to various emotional reactions
Recognizing signs of distress
- Observe changes in body language (tensing, fidgeting, avoiding eye contact)
- Listen for alterations in voice tone or speech patterns
- Notice physical signs of distress (tears, shaking, sweating)
- Be aware of sudden changes in demeanor or engagement level
- Pay attention to verbal cues indicating discomfort or reluctance
Appropriate reactions to emotions
- Acknowledge and validate the interviewee's emotions
- Offer supportive statements without attempting to "fix" their feelings
- Maintain a calm and steady presence during emotional moments
- Provide tissues or water if needed, but avoid physical contact
- Allow silence and space for the interviewee to process their emotions
When to pause or stop
- Recognize when the interviewee needs a break from intense questioning
- Offer to pause the interview if signs of severe distress are observed
- Be prepared to end the interview early if it becomes too overwhelming
- Have resources available for support if the interviewee needs assistance
- Prioritize the well-being of the interviewee over getting the story
Legal and ethical boundaries
- Sensitive interviews often involve complex legal and ethical considerations
- Filmmaking journalists must navigate these boundaries to protect both their subjects and their work
Consent and permissions
- Obtain before beginning the interview
- Explain the purpose, scope, and potential uses of the interview clearly
- Discuss any risks or potential consequences of participation
- Ensure the interviewee understands their right to refuse or stop at any time
- Document consent through signed forms or on-camera verbal agreement
Confidentiality agreements
- Establish clear parameters for what information will be kept confidential
- Discuss any limitations to confidentiality (legal obligations, editorial policies)
- Explain how identifying information will be protected or anonymized
- Agree on terms for reviewing or approving content before publication
- Clarify the duration and scope of any confidentiality agreements
Protecting vulnerable subjects
- Assess the potential risks to the interviewee from participating
- Implement measures to safeguard identities when necessary
- Consider the long-term implications of the interview on the subject's life
- Be aware of legal protections for minors or individuals with diminished capacity
- Consult with legal experts when dealing with highly sensitive or dangerous topics
Cultural sensitivity
- Understanding and respecting cultural differences is crucial in sensitive interviews
- Filmmaking journalists must adapt their approach to diverse cultural contexts
Awareness of cultural differences
- Research cultural norms and taboos relevant to the interviewee's background
- Understand how cultural factors may influence communication styles
- Be aware of power dynamics related to gender, age, or social status
- Recognize how cultural trauma or historical events may impact the interview
- Adapt interview techniques to align with cultural expectations
Respectful language and behavior
- Use appropriate forms of address and greetings
- Avoid idioms or colloquialisms that may not translate well
- Be mindful of non-verbal communication (eye contact, personal space)
- Respect cultural or religious practices that may affect the interview process
- Demonstrate openness to learning about the interviewee's cultural perspective
Use of interpreters
- Work with qualified interpreters familiar with the subject matter
- Brief interpreters on the sensitive nature of the interview and ethical considerations
- Allow extra time for interpretation and clarification of complex concepts
- Maintain eye contact with the interviewee, not the interpreter
- Be aware of potential power dynamics introduced by the presence of an interpreter
Trauma-informed approach
- Many sensitive interviews involve subjects who have experienced trauma
- Filmmaking journalists must adopt trauma-informed practices to avoid re-traumatization
Understanding trauma effects
- Recognize common symptoms of trauma (flashbacks, avoidance, hypervigilance)
- Understand how trauma can affect memory and narrative coherence
- Be aware of potential triggers that may resurface traumatic memories
- Recognize that trauma responses can vary widely between individuals
- Understand the concept of intergenerational or collective trauma
Avoiding re-traumatization
- Allow the interviewee to control the pace and depth of disclosure
- Avoid unnecessarily graphic or detailed questions about traumatic events
- Respect boundaries and don't push for information the subject is reluctant to share
- Be prepared to shift topics if signs of distress become apparent
- Provide grounding techniques or breaks if the interviewee becomes overwhelmed
Supportive interview techniques
- Begin and end interviews with less emotionally charged topics
- Use a strength-based approach, focusing on resilience and coping
- Offer choices throughout the interview to empower the interviewee
- Validate the interviewee's experiences without judgment
- Provide information on support resources available after the interview
Post-interview considerations
- The journalist's responsibility extends beyond the interview itself
- Filmmaking journalists must handle sensitive content ethically in post-production
Follow-up with interviewees
- Check in with the interviewee after the interview to ensure their well-being
- Provide information on when and how the interview will be used
- Offer opportunities for the interviewee to add or clarify information
- Be available to address any concerns that arise after the interview
- Maintain boundaries while showing care for the interviewee's experience
Editing sensitive content
- Balance the need for compelling storytelling with ethical representation
- Avoid sensationalizing or exploiting emotional moments
- Consider the potential impact of the edited piece on the interviewee and their community
- Consult with the interviewee on sensitive portions if agreed upon
- Be prepared to omit content that could cause harm or violate agreed-upon terms
Ethical representation in final product
- Present information accurately and in proper context
- Avoid manipulative editing techniques that misrepresent the interviewee
- Consider the long-term implications of how the subject is portrayed
- Balance the public's right to know with the subject's right to privacy
- Seek feedback from colleagues or ethics experts on challenging decisions
Self-care for journalists
- Conducting sensitive interviews can take an emotional toll on journalists
- Filmmaking journalists must prioritize their own mental health to maintain professional effectiveness
Dealing with secondary trauma
- Recognize signs of vicarious traumatization or compassion fatigue
- Develop personal coping strategies for processing difficult content
- Set boundaries between work and personal life to allow for recovery
- Engage in regular self-reflection to monitor emotional well-being
- Seek professional support if experiencing persistent distress
Debriefing after difficult interviews
- Allocate time for processing emotions and reactions post-interview
- Discuss challenging aspects with trusted colleagues or supervisors
- Identify lessons learned and areas for improvement in future interviews
- Acknowledge the impact of the interview on personal emotions and beliefs
- Celebrate successes and positive outcomes from the interview
Mental health resources
- Familiarize yourself with available counseling or support services
- Consider joining peer support groups for journalists
- Develop a self-care routine incorporating stress-reduction techniques
- Advocate for mental health support within your organization
- Stay informed about best practices for journalist well-being and resilience
Key Terms to Review (18)
Active listening: Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the speaker is saying. It emphasizes engagement and feedback, ensuring that the listener not only hears the words but also grasps the underlying emotions and intentions. This technique is crucial for establishing trust and rapport, especially during interviews and sensitive conversations.
Avoiding re-traumatization: Avoiding re-traumatization refers to the practice of preventing individuals from experiencing a recurrence of trauma, especially during sensitive interviews where they may be asked to recount distressing events. This involves creating a safe and supportive environment, being mindful of the interviewee's emotional state, and using careful language that minimizes potential triggers. The goal is to ensure that the process of sharing their story does not lead to further psychological harm.
Checklists for sensitive topics: Checklists for sensitive topics are structured tools designed to guide journalists in conducting interviews on delicate subjects, ensuring ethical considerations and emotional sensitivities are addressed. These checklists help reporters prepare adequately, fostering a respectful and informed approach to potentially distressing conversations with interviewees, enhancing both the quality of the reporting and the safety of those involved.
Confidentiality: Confidentiality is the ethical principle of keeping information private and secure, ensuring that sensitive details shared by individuals are not disclosed without their consent. This principle is particularly crucial in building trust during interviews, where participants need to feel safe sharing personal or sensitive information. Upholding confidentiality not only protects individuals' rights but also enhances the integrity of the reporting process.
Cultural sensitivity: Cultural sensitivity refers to the awareness and understanding of the differences in cultural practices, values, and beliefs among various groups. It involves recognizing these differences and approaching interactions with respect and openness, which is crucial in areas such as storytelling, interviewing, obtaining consent, and collaborating with local teams. By being culturally sensitive, media professionals can create more authentic narratives that honor the experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
De-escalation techniques: De-escalation techniques are strategies used to reduce tension and conflict in potentially volatile situations, helping to maintain a safe and constructive environment. These techniques are crucial when interacting with individuals who may be emotionally charged or distressed, particularly during sensitive interviews. Employing these methods can help create rapport, facilitate open communication, and ultimately lead to more productive outcomes.
Emotional safety: Emotional safety refers to the condition in which individuals feel secure enough to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment, backlash, or negative consequences. It is crucial for creating a trusting environment during sensitive interviews, allowing participants to open up about their experiences and emotions.
Empathetic questioning: Empathetic questioning is a technique used in communication that focuses on understanding and validating the emotions and experiences of the person being interviewed. This approach is essential when dealing with sensitive topics, as it fosters a safe space where the interviewee feels heard and respected. By asking thoughtful and compassionate questions, the interviewer encourages openness and trust, which can lead to more meaningful and honest responses.
Informed consent: Informed consent is the process by which individuals voluntarily agree to participate in research or media projects after being fully informed about the nature, risks, and benefits of their involvement. This concept is crucial in ensuring that subjects understand their rights and what participation entails, which relates to ethical standards in various aspects of visual journalism.
Interview protocols: Interview protocols are structured guidelines or frameworks designed to help interviewers conduct interviews in a consistent and effective manner. These protocols often include a set of questions, suggested follow-ups, and ethical considerations that ensure the interview is conducted respectfully and professionally. They are particularly important when dealing with sensitive topics and ensuring that consent and subject rights are prioritized throughout the interviewing process.
Ira Glass: Ira Glass is an influential American radio personality and the creator of the popular public radio program 'This American Life.' His unique storytelling style and approach to narrative journalism have made a significant impact on the fields of audio and visual journalism, particularly in the context of conducting sensitive interviews and podcasting.
Managing emotional responses: Managing emotional responses refers to the ability to recognize, control, and appropriately express feelings during interpersonal interactions, especially in challenging situations. This skill is particularly vital in sensitive settings, where emotions can run high and affect both the interviewer and the subject being interviewed. Successfully managing emotional responses helps create a safe environment, fosters trust, and allows for more authentic communication.
Redirecting questions: Redirecting questions is a technique used in interviews where the interviewer steers the conversation back to a relevant topic or aspect of the interviewee's experience. This approach is particularly useful in sensitive interviews, as it helps maintain focus and encourages the interviewee to share pertinent information while feeling supported. It allows for a smoother flow of conversation, ensuring that the essential themes are addressed without causing additional distress to the interviewee.
Studs Terkel: Studs Terkel was an influential American oral historian and broadcaster known for his interviews that captured the voices of everyday people. His work focused on the experiences and stories of individuals, making their narratives central to understanding historical and social contexts, especially during sensitive topics such as war, poverty, and social justice.
Trauma awareness: Trauma awareness is the understanding of how trauma can affect individuals’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being, especially in the context of sensitive situations. It involves recognizing the signs of trauma and acknowledging its potential impact on storytelling and interview techniques. By being trauma-aware, journalists can approach subjects with empathy and care, ensuring that interviews do not inadvertently re-traumatize individuals sharing their stories.
Trauma-informed interviewing: Trauma-informed interviewing is an approach that recognizes and responds to the impact of trauma on individuals, ensuring that the interview process is sensitive, supportive, and avoids re-traumatization. This method emphasizes understanding the effects of trauma on a person's behavior, emotions, and responses, allowing interviewers to create a safe environment where individuals feel empowered to share their experiences without fear or discomfort.
Trust-building: Trust-building is the process of establishing and nurturing confidence between an interviewer and their subject, which is crucial for obtaining candid and insightful responses. It involves creating a safe environment where the subject feels respected and valued, making it easier for them to share sensitive or personal information. Effective trust-building enhances the quality of interviews, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals or sensitive topics.
Victim interviews: Victim interviews are conversations conducted with individuals who have experienced a crime or traumatic event, aiming to gather accurate information while being sensitive to their emotional state. These interviews are critical for understanding the victim's perspective, ensuring their needs are met, and facilitating a supportive environment for disclosure. The approach taken during these interviews can significantly impact the quality of the information gathered and the overall experience of the victim.