Interrogation vs. Interviewing

Attribute	Interrogation	Interviewing
Goal	To extract information forcefully	To gather information through conversation
Approach	Aggressive and confrontational	Conversational and friendly
Setting	Usually in a formal setting like a police station	Can be conducted in various settings like offices or homes
Legal implications	May involve coercion and may not always be legal	Should be conducted ethically and legally
Duration	Can be shorter and more intense	Can be longer and more relaxed

Definition

Interrogation and interviewing are two techniques used in gathering information from individuals. Interrogation is typically associated with law enforcement and involves a more aggressive approach to questioning, often with the goal of obtaining a confession. On the other hand, interviewing is a more neutral and conversational approach used in various fields such as journalism, research, and human resources to gather information from individuals.

Goal

The primary goal of interrogation is to obtain a confession or incriminating information from a suspect. Interrogators use various tactics such as pressure, manipulation, and deception to elicit the desired information. In contrast, the goal of interviewing is to gather information, insights, or opinions from individuals in a more open and non-coercive manner. Interviewers aim to build rapport with the interviewee to encourage honest and detailed responses.

Approach

Interrogation often involves a confrontational approach where the interrogator takes on a position of authority and control. The interrogator may use tactics such as intimidation, manipulation, and deception to elicit information from the suspect. In contrast, interviewing typically involves a more collaborative and conversational approach where the interviewer and interviewee engage in a dialogue. The interviewer may ask open-ended questions and actively listen to the responses to gather information.

Setting

Interrogations often take place in a formal setting such as a police station or interrogation room. The environment is designed to be intimidating and may include features such as one-way mirrors, recording devices, and limited seating. In contrast, interviews can take place in a variety of settings depending on the purpose and context. Interviews may be conducted in an office, over the phone, via video call, or even in a more casual setting such as a coffee shop.

Legal Considerations

Interrogations are subject to strict legal guidelines to protect the rights of the suspect. Miranda rights must be read to the suspect before questioning, and coercion or physical force is prohibited. Confessions obtained through illegal means may be deemed inadmissible in court. Interviews, on the other hand, are not subject to the same legal restrictions as interrogations. However, interviewers must still adhere to ethical guidelines and respect the rights and privacy of the interviewee.

Skills Required

Interrogation requires specific skills such as the ability to read body language, detect deception, and apply psychological tactics to elicit information. Interrogators must also have a strong understanding of the law and legal procedures. In contrast, interviewing requires skills such as active listening, empathy, and the ability to build rapport with the interviewee. Interviewers must also have strong communication skills to ask relevant questions and follow up on responses.

Outcome

The outcome of an interrogation is often a confession or incriminating information that can be used in a legal proceeding. The success of an interrogation is typically measured by the information obtained and whether it leads to a conviction. In contrast, the outcome of an interview is typically information, insights, or opinions that can be used for research, reporting, decision-making, or other purposes. The success of an interview is often measured by the quality and relevance of the information gathered.