Cognitive interview

Definition

A cognitive interview is a specialized technique used in investigative interviewing to enhance the retrieval of information from individuals, particularly witnesses or victims. This method emphasizes creating a relaxed environment, encouraging open-ended responses, and using various prompts to help individuals recall details more effectively, which is particularly useful when dealing with reluctant sources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cognitive interviews are based on principles of memory and psychology, designed to facilitate better recall by utilizing techniques that align with how memory works.
2. This interviewing method includes specific phases such as establishing rapport, encouraging narrative accounts, and using guided imagery to help witnesses remember details.
3. The effectiveness of cognitive interviews has been supported by numerous studies, showing that they can significantly improve the amount and accuracy of information obtained from witnesses.
4. Interviewers trained in cognitive interview techniques are better equipped to handle reluctant sources by fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages sharing.
5. Cognitive interviews are especially beneficial in high-stress situations where individuals may have difficulty recalling events due to trauma or anxiety.

Review Questions

• How does the cognitive interview technique enhance the recall of information from reluctant sources?
  • The cognitive interview technique enhances recall by creating a comfortable environment that encourages open dialogue. By using open-ended questions and allowing individuals to recount their experiences freely, interviewers can obtain richer details. This approach reduces anxiety and builds trust, making reluctant sources more willing to share their information.
• Discuss the key components of a cognitive interview and how they specifically address challenges faced when interviewing reluctant sources.
  • Key components of a cognitive interview include rapport building, encouraging narrative accounts, and employing memory retrieval techniques. These components help address challenges faced when interviewing reluctant sources by establishing trust and reducing stress. By focusing on open-ended questions and allowing the interviewee to control the flow of information, interviewers can overcome initial resistance and facilitate better communication.
• Evaluate the implications of using cognitive interviews in investigative reporting and how they might influence the accuracy of the information gathered.
  • Using cognitive interviews in investigative reporting can significantly enhance the accuracy of information gathered from sources. By applying psychological principles that aid memory retrieval, reporters are likely to gain more reliable accounts. This method not only increases the quantity of information but also improves its quality, leading to more comprehensive and truthful reporting. Ultimately, this approach benefits the integrity of investigative journalism by prioritizing accuracy and depth in source interactions.

Related terms

open-ended questions: Questions that allow for a free-form response, encouraging the interviewee to provide detailed information rather than just 'yes' or 'no' answers.

rapport building: The process of establishing a trusting relationship between the interviewer and the interviewee, which can lead to more open communication and information sharing.

memory retrieval techniques: Methods used to assist individuals in recalling information, including context reinstatement and visualization, often utilized in conjunction with cognitive interviews.