What is the role of an interviewer during a forensic assessment?

The role of an interviewer during a forensic assessment is primarily to guide the conversation while remaining non-directive and facilitating the interviewee's narrative. This approach is essential for creating an environment where the interviewee feels comfortable to share information freely. By not imposing their own agenda or leading questions, the interviewer can help ensure that the narrative provided by the interviewee is genuine and comprehensive. This method allows the interviewer to gather more accurate and reliable information, which is crucial in forensic assessments.

The interviewer’s focus on facilitating rather than directing the conversation promotes a more truthful exchange and helps to uncover details that might otherwise be missed if the interviewer were to impose strict limits on the topics discussed or engage in aggressive questioning. This supportive yet structured approach strikes a balance that encourages open communication and honesty from the interviewee, ultimately leading to more effective and productive interviews.