As experts we must keep in mind that building trust is essential when interviewing the relatives of a missing person since we can obtain more information from them and in the most truthful way possible. Here are some techniques to establish and maintain that trust:
- Empathy and understanding: Show empathy towards family members and demonstrate understanding of their emotions and concerns. Actively listen and validate their feelings without judging.
- Establish a safe environment: Create a safe and welcoming environment for the interview. Assure them that their information will be treated with confidentiality and respect.
- Build a collaborative relationship: Emphasize that you are there to help and support. Work collaboratively with family members, involving them in the interview process and taking their needs and concerns into account.
- Clear and transparent communication: Be clear and transparent in your communication. Explain the purpose of the interview, the investigation process, and how the information you provide will help in the search for your loved one.
- Respect for rhythm and limits: Respect the rhythm and limits of family members. Don’t push for information if they aren’t ready to share it. Assure them that they can share only what they feel comfortable sharing.
- Listen without interrupting: Allow family members to express themselves freely and without interruptions. Actively listen to their concerns, questions, and any information they want to share.
- Validate their experiences: Validate the experiences and knowledge of family members about the missing person. Recognizes his unique role in the life of the missing person and the importance of his perspective in the investigation.
- Offer emotional support: Provide ongoing emotional support throughout the interview. Acknowledge the pain and distress they are experiencing and offer additional support options, such as counseling services or support groups.
- Follow-up and continuity: Follow up regularly with family members to keep them updated on any relevant developments and to offer ongoing support over time. Continuity in communication helps strengthen the relationship of trust.
By implementing these interview techniques, you can help families of missing people feel heard, supported, and valued during such a difficult time.
Question
Why is it essential to build trust when interviewing relatives of a missing person?
- To involve the police.
- To obtain information from them.
- To speed up the search process.
- To understand their emotions.
- To increase the anxiety of the relatives.
What does it mean to show empathy and understanding during the interview with family members?
- Pressuring them for information.
- Not involving them in the process.
- Not actively listening.
- Ignoring their emotions.
- Validating their feelings in a non-judgmental way.
What is achieved by establishing a safe environment for interviewing family members?
- They become aggressive.
- They feel comfortable to share their information.
- They feel more concerned.
- They may feel intimidated.
- Refusing to cooperate.
Why is it important to collaborate with family members during the interview?
- To involve them in the process and take their needs and concerns into account.
- To show superiority.
- To make them feel less important.
- To discredit their information.
- To ignore their suggestions.
Why is it advisable to offer emotional support during the interview with family members?
- To acknowledge the pain and distress they are experiencing and offer options for additional support.
- To minimise their emotions.
- To divert attention away from the disappearance.
- To increase their pain and distress.
- To demonstrate insensitivity.
