Interviewing Vulnerable Suspects

Suspects are not always able to take part in an interview on equal terms. Some have conditions or circumstances that change how they understand questions, how they respond to pressure, and how reliable their answers are. This guide explains how investigators can recognise those vulnerabilities and adjust their approach. It begins with a review of current research, professional practice and the legal framework, then considers how vulnerabilities are identified, how third parties can be involved in an interview, and what training and supervision should involve.

The second half examines specific vulnerabilities commonly found among suspects. For each, the author summarises the research, works through case studies, and gives practical guidance for interviewing that group. The material draws on both police casework and academic study, so its recommendations rest on research as well as on what happens in real interview rooms.

Written for an international policing audience, the book addresses both uniformed officers and detectives. It is also intended for bodies that oversee misconduct investigations, for legal practitioners and forensic psychologists, for counselling, social work and psychology professionals, and for students of policing, criminology and forensic psychology.