Because of my background and who my clients are, these blogs are written for interviewing, investigations, inspection, and audit communities, but their applicability beyond those arenas should be apparent. That is especially true here. This is about being in tune with those around you. Being sensitive to trauma in its many forms and appearances. Beyond that, work is but a slice of our lives impact, so really, I want them to also improve relationships and interactions with your most cherished loved ones. Please take the time to read these blogs with that scope in mind.
In the realm of investigative interviewing—whether conducted by law enforcement, legal professionals, social workers, or journalists—understanding the profound impact of trauma is not just beneficial; it’s essential. Trauma-informed interviewing is more than a compassionate approach; it’s an evidence-based practice rooted in psychological research, designed to enhance the accuracy and reliability of information while safeguarding the well-being of those being interviewed.
Why Trauma-Informed Interviewing Matters
Imagine sitting across from someone who has experienced a life-altering event. Their memory may be fragmented, emotions volatile, and behavior unpredictable. Traditional interviewing techniques, often linear and rigid, can unintentionally exacerbate these challenges, leading to unreliable information or re-traumatization. Here, trauma-informed interviewing steps in, bridging the gap between investigative needs and the human experience of trauma. This dual focus is ethically essential and necessary.
The Science Behind the Approach
Research in neuroscience and psychology reveals that trauma significantly affects brain function, particularly in areas related to memory, cognition, and emotional regulation. The hippocampus, responsible for organizing memories, can be impaired, resulting in fragmented or non-linear recall. This isn’t a sign of deceit but a neurobiological response to overwhelming stress. Think of those times of extreme stress in your life, how clearly were you thinking and processing information. We are always told not to make significant decisions in those times of high stress.
Understanding these dynamics is critical. For example, inconsistencies in a witness’s story aren’t necessarily red flags for dishonesty. They may reflect the natural ways trauma disrupts memory encoding and retrieval. Evidence-based practices in trauma-informed interviewing emphasize recognizing these signs and adapting techniques accordingly.
Building a Safe, Supportive Environment
The foundation of trauma-informed interviewing lies in creating a safe and supportive space. This involves both physical and psychological safety:
- Physical Safety: Choose a calm, comfortable setting free from distractions. Put some thought into this when planning and strategizing the interaction.
- Psychological Safety: Establish trust through transparency, explaining the process and purpose of the interview. This can have positive effects in every interaction, so I attempt to practice this consistently.
- Empowerment: Offer the interviewee choices—where to sit, when to take breaks, or whether to have a support person present. This autonomy helps counteract feelings of powerlessness often experienced during traumatic events.
The Art of Asking Questions
Effective trauma-informed interviewing relies on strategic, well-planned questioning:
- Open-Ended Questions: Encourage detailed narratives without leading the witness. Questions like, “Can you tell me what happened in your own words?” invite comprehensive responses. Be prepared with follow-on questions which you will need, to encourage all information to be disclosed.
- Avoiding Leading Questions: Prevent inadvertently suggesting answers, which can distort recall and which people experiencing trauma are prone to.
- Pacing and Grounding: Be mindful of the interviewee’s emotional state. Use grounding techniques if signs of distress or dissociation appear. Clearly, listening intently is imperative to identify these signs.
Minimizing Re-Traumatization
Re-traumatization can occur when interview techniques inadvertently trigger memories of the traumatic event. Awareness of potential triggers—specific words, tones, or procedural elements—is vital. The goal is to gather accurate information without causing additional harm.
The Interviewer’s Role: Self-Awareness and Preparedness
Trauma-informed interviewing also requires introspection. Interviewers must be aware of their own biases and emotional responses. Continuous training in trauma dynamics, cultural sensitivity, and stress management ensures they remain effective and ethical in their approach. Again, planning, preparation, and strategizing can mitigate these effects.
Aligning with Evidence-Based Practice
The importance of trauma-informed interviewing is backed by a robust body of research. Studies show that when interviewees feel safe and supported, they are more likely to provide detailed, accurate accounts. This not only strengthens the integrity of the investigation but also upholds ethical standards of care and respect.
In legal contexts, trauma-informed practices can even influence case outcomes. Testimonies gathered through compassionate, evidence-based methods are more credible and resilient under scrutiny. There is also less evidence of changing their stories or statements as a result.
Trauma-informed interviewing isn’t just a best practice; it’s a necessary evolution in investigative methodologies. By integrating scientific insights with empathetic techniques, interviewers can ensure their work is both effective and humane. In every investigative interaction, recognizing and respecting the impact of trauma isn’t just good practice—it’s the cornerstone of justice and truth.
Evidence-based practices need to be incorporated in our interviewing approach. If you aren’t doing them, ask yourself what proof do you have that your technique produces the desired effect? If your answer is “that’s the way I have always done it” or something like that, it is a clue that it might need to change. These changes are minor and can be accomplished by all, if you are willing. Training is essential. I can provide it or recommend providers teaching evidence-based techniques. Do your research, find the right provider, maximize your training dollar investment. Don’t get the same old legacy-based methods that have no empirical evidence supporting them.
Anderson Investigative Associates is positioned to custom-tailor training to your specific needs. If you have any questions or would like to discuss trauma-based interviewing, any evidence-based techniques, or any training need, please reach out. Additional issues pertaining to interviewing, auditing, and investigations can be found in other blogs and videos that I have produced and are contained in most blocks of instruction that our company presents.
If you have additional questions, comments, or have an interview topic you would like me to address, give me a shout. In the meantime, be well, stay safe out there, and get what you need to start trauma-based interviewing. This work will improve your interviewing and communication skills, and not just in interviews but throughout your life. If you need help getting ready, I know who could help.
