How can an interviewer assess the credibility of a statement made by an interviewee?

Evaluating the credibility of a statement made by an interviewee is a critical component of the forensic interviewing process. The correct approach involves assessing factors such as consistency, coherence, and corroborative evidence.

Consistency refers to whether the interviewee's statements remain the same over time and across different contexts. Consistent statements bolster credibility, as they suggest reliability in the information being provided. Coherence evaluates how well the various elements of the story fit together logically. A coherent statement will have a clear structure and flow, making the information more believable.

Corroborative evidence involves seeking additional information or evidence that supports the interviewee's statements. This could be in the form of witnesses, documents, or other tangible evidence that can confirm the claims made. When these elements are present, they add to the overall credibility of the information shared by the interviewee.

In contrast, assessing emotional tone, comparing statements against public opinions, or relying solely on body language do not provide a comprehensive or reliable method for determining credibility. Emotional tone may not necessarily correlate with the truthfulness of a statement, while public opinion does not serve as an objective measure of an individual's claims. Observing body language can offer insights into a person’s emotional state but should not be used in isolation for