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Controlling the interview: The influencing of techniques of suspects of control and coercion

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Steven Watson

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Abstract

Background In 2015, the UK enhanced protection for victims of domestic abuse by criminalising controlling and coercive behaviour. However, there have been few prosecutions. One suggested reason for the low number of prosecutions is officers’ lack of experience interviewing to convict for control and coercion. Our aims are to help prepare interviewers by examining the influencing techniques used by such suspects. Methods Control and coercion suspects speech during interviews (N = 25) were content coded for influencing techniques based on a framework developed from existing theory (e.g., neutralization theory, the Table of Ten). Results Suspects used four principle forms of influence: (1) rational arguments to convince of their innocence; (2) justifications to minimise perception of harm or deflect blame; (3) relational arguments to bias police perceptions in the suspect’s favour; and (4) reputational arguments to impose dominance in the interview. Discussion A few core arguments were used extensively by most suspects. We also identified a number of less widely used, but nonetheless relevant strategies that suspects used to try to convince officers of their innocence. The strategies identified in the current research can help interviewers prepare for facing ‘typical’ arguments from suspects of controlling and coercive behavior.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Watson SJ, Luther K, Jackson J, Taylor PJ, Alison L

Publication type: Conference Proceedings (inc. Abstract)

Publication status: Published

Conference Name: International Investigative Interviewing Research Group 11th Annual Conference

Year of Conference: 2018

Online publication date: 04/07/2018

Acceptance date: 09/04/2018

Publisher: iIIRG

URL: http://conference.iiirg.org/


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