200 word response 1 reference/intext citation
Due 1/24/2025
Post 2
Charlize
Psychological and environmental factors play a huge role in shaping the dynamics of interviews and interrogations. These factors influence both the subject and the investigator, also affecting the flow, accuracy, and outcomes of the interaction. Cultural differences significantly influence communication styles, behavior, and expectations during an interview. Cultures vary in the use of direct versus indirect communication. Someone from a culture favoring indirect communication may seem evasive or uncooperative to an investigator unfamiliar with these norms. Someone from a direct communication style can feel confrontational to someone from a more reserved culture. Eye contact, gestures, and personal space are interpreted differently across cultures. Investigators need to remain culturally competent to avoid misinterpreting behaviors as deceptive or uncooperative. The location of the interview or interrogation can impact someone’s behavior and concentration. A noisy, cluttered, or overly formal environment may create discomfort or anxiety for the subject, leading to less productive interactions. Osterburg and Ward (2013) states the importance of conducting interviews in a setting with open communication, noting that “the physical setting for an interview should encourage comfort and a sense of safety to foster cooperation” (p. 275). This shows the need to minimize distractions and create a neutral environment to reduce stress. Also, the feelings of power in an interview or interrogation often affect a person’s level of cooperation. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, or psychological state may amplify feelings of vulnerability in the subject, which can influence their willingness to share information. Anxiety, fear, or guilt can alter the person’s ability to process and respond to questions accurately. Investigators may also have preconceived bias or stereotypes that may unconsciously shape how the investigator interprets responses. An example that highlights the influence of psychological and environmental factors during an interrogation, is the case of Brendan Dassey from the documentary Making a Murderer. Dassey, a teenager with cognitive limitations, was interrogated without legal representation or a parent present, and the setting and perceived power dynamics. This led to a controversial confession, which later on is deemed as a potentially coerced confession. Combining video recordings with written notes ensures both transparency and thoroughness, reducing the likelihood of undue influence from cultural norms, environmental distractions, or power dynamics and saved Dassey. Investigators must carefully consider psychological and environmental factors to create conditions that maximize the effectiveness of interviews and interrogations.
