200 word response 1 reference/intext citation
Due 1/24/2025
Post 2
Epps
Psychological and environmental factors play a crucial role in shaping both the responses of subjects and the approach of investigators during interviews and interrogations. Elements such as cultural norms, environmental distractions, and perceived power dynamics can significantly enhance or impede the effectiveness of these interactions. Understanding these influences is essential for conducting interviews that are fair, ethical, and productive, as they can directly affect the quality of information obtained.
Cultural norms dictate communication styles and how authority is perceived, causing individuals from various backgrounds to respond differently to questioning techniques. For example, direct confrontations may be viewed as disrespectful in certain cultures, while they might be acceptable in others. Ignoring these cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings, ultimately compromising the quality of the information gathered. Additionally, environmental factors like noise and lack of privacy can disrupt focus, leading to miscommunication and overlooked details; a calm and private setting, on the other hand, encourages openness and facilitates better exchanges.
Perceived power dynamics also play a significant role in interviews, as subjects may feel intimidated by the authority of the investigator, resulting in stress or anxiety that hinders clear thinking. Research by Kassin et al. (2018) highlights that both environmental and psychological factors can significantly affect the reliability of statements made during interviews and interrogations. They emphasize that factors such as room temperature, seating arrangements, and the psychological state of the subject can influence the course and outcomes of these interactions, underlining the importance of mitigating these influences through careful procedural design and documentation.
