Unit 5: Identifying Inconsistencies and Deception

In this explanation, we will cover key terms and vocabulary related to Unit 5: Identifying Inconsistencies and Deception in the course Professional Certificate in Investigative Interviewing Techniques. This unit focuses on the ability to identify inconsistencies and deception in a person's statements, behavior, and non-verbal cues. We will discuss various concepts, techniques, and best practices to help you become more proficient in detecting deception.

1. Inconsistencies: Inconsistencies refer to discrepancies or mismatches in a person's statements, behavior, or non-verbal cues. These inconsistencies can be intentional or unintentional and can provide valuable information during an investigative interview.

Example: A witness states they saw the suspect's face clearly, but later mentions they were wearing sunglasses.

Practical application: Identify and probe for inconsistencies during an interview, as they can reveal deception or memory lapses.

Challenge: Be cautious not to jump to conclusions based on small inconsistencies, as people may simply make innocent mistakes or have faulty memories.

2. Deception: Deception is the act of intentionally providing false or misleading information. It can take various forms, such as lying, withholding information, or exaggerating.

Example: A suspect denies being at the crime scene when they were actually there.

Practical application: Learn to recognize verbal and non-verbal cues that may indicate deception, but understand that these indicators are not foolproof and must be considered within the broader context of the interview.

Challenge: Recognize that some individuals may be skilled at deception and can effectively hide their true intentions.

3. Verbal cues: Verbal cues are elements of a person's speech that can provide insight into their credibility. These cues can include inconsistencies in statements, hesitations, overly detailed responses, or unnatural speech patterns.

Example: A witness provides a vague description of the suspect, but then suddenly remembers specific details (e.g., hair color, clothing) that they hadn't mentioned before.

Practical application: Pay attention to the tone, pace, and content of a person's speech during an interview.

Challenge: Understand that verbal cues can be influenced by factors other than deception, such as nervousness or fatigue.

4. Non-verbal cues: Non-verbal cues are visual or physical indicators that can provide insight into a person's emotional state or credibility. These cues can include facial expressions, body language, or gestures.

Example: A suspect avoids eye contact, fidgets, or displays nervous behavior during an interview.

Practical application: Observe a person's body language and facial expressions during an interview, but be cautious not to overinterpret these cues.

Challenge: Recognize that non-verbal cues can be influenced by factors other than deception, such as cultural differences or personality traits.

5. Baseline behavior: Baseline behavior refers to a person's typical or normal behavior when they are not under stress or attempting to deceive. Establishing a baseline can help interviewers identify deviations in behavior that may indicate deception or stress.

Example: An interviewee's normal behavior includes making eye contact and speaking at a moderate pace, but during questioning about a specific topic, they avoid eye contact and speak rapidly.

Practical application: Observe a person's behavior during the initial stages of an interview to establish a baseline for comparison.

Challenge: Be aware that a person's baseline behavior may change over time due to factors such as fatigue or familiarity with the interview process.

6. Leakage: Leakage refers to the unintentional display of true emotions or intentions, despite a person's attempts to hide them. This can occur through verbal or non-verbal cues.

Example: A suspect trying to appear calm may sweat profusely or have trembling hands.

Practical application: Pay attention to subtle cues that may indicate leakage, but do not rely solely on these cues to determine credibility.

Challenge: Recognize that some individuals may be better at controlling leakage than others.

7. Pacing and leading: Pacing and leading is a technique used to build rapport with a person and influence their behavior. Pacing involves matching a person's speech patterns, body language, or emotions, while leading involves gradually introducing new ideas or suggestions.

Example: An interviewer matches a witness's tone and pace during an interview, then leads them towards providing more details about the incident.

Practical application: Use pacing and leading to build trust and encourage cooperation during an interview.

Challenge: Be cautious not to overuse pacing and leading, as it may come across as manipulative or insincere.

8. Reid Technique: The Reid Technique is a popular investigative interviewing method used to detect deception and elicit confessions. It consists of nine steps, including fact-finding, theme development, and alternative question

Example: An investigator uses the Reid Technique to interview a suspect, starting with an open-ended fact-finding phase, then transitioning to a more focused interrogation phase.

Practical application: Understand and apply the Reid Technique, but be aware of its limitations and potential for false confessions.

Challenge: Recognize that the Reid Technique may not be suitable for all cultural or age groups and may be less effective in certain situations.

9. Cognitive interviewing: Cognitive interviewing is a non-confrontational interviewing technique that focuses on memory recall and cognitive processes. It involves using various mnemonic strategies to help a person recall information more accurately and thoroughly.

Example: An investigator uses cognitive interviewing techniques, such as context reinstatement or change of perspective, to help a witness recall a suspect's appearance.

Practical application: Apply cognitive interviewing techniques to help witnesses and victims provide detailed and accurate information.

Challenge: Be aware that cognitive interviewing may take longer than other interviewing methods and may require more resources.

10. Confirmation bias: Confirmation bias is the tendency to seek out or interpret information in a way that confirms one's pre-existing beliefs or expectations. This bias can lead interviewers to overlook inconsistencies or alternative explanations.

Example: An investigator focuses on a particular suspect, interpreting all evidence and statements as supporting their guilt, while disregarding contradictory information.

Practical application: Recognize and mitigate confirmation bias by considering alternative explanations and seeking out disconfirming evidence.

Challenge: Be aware that confirmation bias can be subtle and unconscious, making it challenging to identify and address.

In conclusion, understanding key terms and concepts related to identifying inconsistencies and deception is crucial for effective investigative interviewing. By practicing these techniques and remaining aware of potential pitfalls, interviewers can improve their ability to detect deception and obtain accurate information. However, it is essential to remember that no single technique or indicator is foolproof and that a comprehensive, objective approach is necessary for successful investigative interviewing.