What is the main advantage of recording interviews?

The main advantage of recording interviews is that it provides a verbatim account of the interview for later review and analysis. This benefit is crucial in forensic interviewing, as it ensures that every detail of the conversation is captured accurately. A recorded interview allows interviewers and analysts to revisit the actual words spoken, which is invaluable for assessing the credibility of statements, understanding nuances in language, and identifying inconsistencies or areas that may require further exploration.

Moreover, having a precise record of the interview is essential for legal purposes, where the exact content of statements can impact case outcomes. Other stakeholders, such as defense attorneys or jurors, can also refer to these recordings to gain insight into the interview process and the information conveyed.

While analyzing the interviewer's interaction may be beneficial, the primary purpose of recording is to maintain an accurate record of the subject's responses. Recording does not inherently make the interview faster or eliminate the need for notes; rather, it supplements the interview process by ensuring that a reliable account exists for future reference.