Investigative Interviewing: Implications for Nonverbal Behaviour

Investigative interviews aim to elicit accurate information, yet nonverbal communication poses a complex challenge. This chapter explores the limitations of nonverbal cues as indicators of deception. The influence of the prefrontal cortex and the role of the amygdala on body language are discussed in the context of high-stress situations, emphasising how emotional arousal can be misinterpreted as deception. Psychological reactance theory is introduced, explaining how an interviewee’s perceived threat to their freedom can influence their nonverbal behaviour. The chapter delves into social cognition, exploring how schemas and cultural backgrounds impact the interpretation of nonverbal cues by both interviewers and interviewees. Finally, the fundamental attribution error is addressed, emphasising the tendency to overestimate internal factors and underestimate situational factors when explaining a person’s behaviour. By acknowledging these complexities, the chapter underscores the importance of interviewer training and a nuanced understanding of nonverbal communication in investigative interviews.