2020/06/10 by Martine B. Powell, Sonja P. Brubacher
Neuroscience · Psychology · #Deception detection and forensic psychology #Memory Processes and Influences #Visual and Cognitive Learning Processes
paper · doi:10.1111/ap.12468
openalex publication_date 2020/06/10 · crossref created 2020/06/10 · openalex created_date 2020/06/19 · crossref issued 2020/12/01 · crossref published 2020/12/01 · crossref published-print 2020/12/01 · crossref published-online 2021/03/11 · crossref deposited 2021/03/16 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/31 · crossref indexed 2026/07/31
ObjectivesThe standard interview method (SIM) is a guidance framework for information gathering interviews. This article describes the purpose, scope, origin, experimental basis, and practical application of the SIM. It provides an informative overview of developments to date for psychologists and researchers within the behavioural sciences, as well as for practitioners who might use the SIM. The SIM contains core evidence‐based components but is otherwise open to tailoring and modifications to suit a variety of interviewing purposes such as policing, justice, education, and business. It provides an interview structure and exemplar dialogue, aligned with research into best‐practice interview technique.MethodA detailed overview of the SIM's interview phases, instructions, and exemplar dialogue is provided. The basis for these elements is explained in terms of the experimental and qualitative research that has informed their development.ResultsThe SIM provides evidence‐based guidance for investigative interviewers, and numerous versions have been created to suit different investigation types, interviewee groups, and jurisdictional or organisational requirements. It is continually refined as new findings from experimental research around best‐practice interviewing emerge.ConclusionsRather than a single entity or completed product, the SIM represents a dynamic evolution of research, collaboration, and testing. Its flexible nature will allow it to keep pace with the ever‐progressing knowledge base that informs interview protocol and guidance development, and adapt to local cultures, legislation, processes, and systems of operation.