What does reflective listening involve in the forensic interview context?

Reflective listening in the context of a forensic interview is crucial as it involves paraphrasing the interviewee's statements. This practice serves several important functions: it demonstrates to the interviewee that the interviewer is actively engaged and listening attentively, helps clarify and confirm the information being shared, and encourages the interviewee to expand on their thoughts. By reiterating what the interviewee has said in different words, the interviewer ensures that they accurately understand the content and context of the statements made. This technique also helps build rapport and trust, allowing interviewees to feel more comfortable sharing their experiences and providing further details that may be vital for the investigation.

In contrast, rapid follow-up questions may disrupt the flow of conversation and can make the interviewee feel rushed or pressured, potentially leading to incomplete or inaccurate responses. Providing personal insights could introduce bias or influence the interviewee’s answers, shifting the focus away from their narrative. Lastly, changing the subject to ease tension can undermine the integrity of the interview process, diverting attention from critical information that needs to be uncovered and discussed. Therefore, reflective listening stands out as a key practice that fosters effective communication and information gathering during forensic interviews.