The cognitive interview

Amina Memon, Julie Gawrylowicz

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)peer-review

Abstract

With over 40 years of research on the utility of the Cognitive Interview, there are numerous examples of its application as an effective tool for questioning witnesses. The efficacy of the CI in enhancing memory has been demonstrated with a range of witnesses from children, young adults, and older adults. It has been adopted in various forms by police and other criminal justice professionals across the globe and is compatible with a structured approach that combines effective communication with the use of mnemonic techniques. In recent years there has been a growth in research showing the CI, with some adaptations, could be used in questioning traumatized witnesses and people from different cultures and other vulnerable populations. The CI is compatible with a science-based approach to investigation, one that is witness-led and thereby a fair and effective method for gathering accurate information in interviews.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe handbook of communication skills
EditorsOwen Hargie
Place of PublicationAbingdon
PublisherRoutledge
Chapter18
Pages583-600
Number of pages18
Edition5th
ISBN (Electronic)9781003367796
ISBN (Print)9781032433264, 9781032431673
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 19 Mar 2025

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