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Erring in suspect interviews : The effects of multiple errors on the relationship formation and perceived humaneness (Interviewee’s perspective)

Erber, J. (2022) Erring in suspect interviews : The effects of multiple errors on the relationship formation and perceived humaneness (Interviewee’s perspective).

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Abstract:This study explores the effect of multiple communication errors made by the law enforcement officer on established rapport, the suspect’s trust in the interviewer, perceived humaneness, and the willingness to provide information in suspect interviews. Students were asked to imagine having committed exam fraud and were presented with a video in which an examination board member questioned them about the incident (N = 92). Unknown to the participants, they were randomly assigned to one of three conditions in which the interviewer made no, one, or five errors. The findings show that one error does not affect the variables of interest. However, five errors have a negative impact on rapport, trust, and perceived humaneness. Further, no relationship was found between the number of errors and willingness to provide information. This study was the first to show the effect of multiple communication errors and the relevance of perceived humaneness in suspect interviews. Furthermore, this study confounds the strategic use of multiple errors to gain more information, as it reveals the adverse effects of multiple errors and no increase in willingness to provide information. Nevertheless, one error may still be effective. Future research may replicate these findings in face-to-face interactions with actual interviews.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology BSc (56604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/91479
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