Question 1: Explain the main purpose of the cognitive interview in criminal investigations.

Answer: The main purpose of the cognitive interview is to enhance the accuracy and completeness of eyewitness recall by using specific recall techniques.

Question 2: Describe two techniques used in a cognitive interview to help witnesses remember details more effectively.

Answer: Techniques include reinstating the mental context of the event and asking the witness to recall the event from different perspectives.

Question 3: Why is it important for the interviewer to establish rapport with the witness before conducting a cognitive interview?

Answer: Establishing rapport helps the witness feel comfortable and relaxed, which can improve their ability to recall details accurately.

Question 4: List and explain one way in which the cognitive interview differs from a standard police interview.

Answer: The cognitive interview uses specific memory retrieval techniques, such as mental reinstatement of context, whereas a standard interview relies on general questioning.

Question 5: Identify and briefly describe the 'Mental Reinstatement of Context' technique.

Answer: It involves asking the witness to imagine and describe the environment, emotions, and sensations they experienced during the event to trigger memory recall.

Question 6: What are some possible challenges or limitations of using the cognitive interview?

Answer: Challenges include the time it takes to conduct, the need for training, and that some witnesses may be unable or unwilling to recall details accurately.

Question 7: Draw a diagram illustrating the flow of a typical cognitive interview session. Label the key stages such as 'Introductory phase', 'Recall techniques', and 'Closure'.

Answer: A flowchart with three main boxes connected sequentially: the first labeled 'Introductory phase' (building rapport), the second 'Recall techniques' (e.g., context reinstatement, perspective change), and the third 'Closure' (summarizing and thanking the witness).

Question 8: Describe how the 'Changing Perspective' technique might help improve recall.

Answer: It encourages the witness to imagine the event from another person's point of view, which can trigger additional details not recalled from their own perspective.

Question 9: Suggest one reason why the cognitive interview might be more effective than a standard interview in gathering eyewitness testimony.

Answer: Because it employs specific memory retrieval strategies that can help overcome the natural limitations of human memory.

Question 10: Summarize your understanding of why the cognitive interview is valuable in forensic psychology.

Answer: It is valuable because it can increase the amount of accurate information obtained from witnesses, which can aid in solving crimes and ensuring justice.