What is the primary technique used for ensuring an interviewee feels heard during a forensic interview?

Active listening is the primary technique used to ensure that an interviewee feels heard during a forensic interview. This approach involves fully concentrating on what the interviewee is saying, acknowledging their feelings, and responding appropriately, which fosters a supportive and trusting environment. Active listening goes beyond merely hearing the words; it includes understanding the emotions and intentions behind those words. This skill is crucial in forensic interviews because it encourages open communication, allowing the interviewee to share more information in a comfortable manner.

The effectiveness of active listening lies in its ability to validate the interviewee's experience, making them feel respected and understood. As a result, they are more likely to engage and provide accurate and comprehensive information during the interview process. The use of techniques such as nodding, maintaining appropriate eye contact, and verbal affirmations can help solidify this connection.

While other techniques like interrogative questioning and reflective summarization can be important in certain contexts, they do not specifically focus on the feeling of being heard, which is critical in building rapport and trust in forensic interviews. Direct argumentation, on the other hand, can hinder communication and may even cause the interviewee to become defensive, counteracting the goal of effective listening and understanding.