First published in 1999, this volume brings together a unique range of previously unpublished studies that explore the psychological processes involved in interviewing, statement validation, detecting deception and the use of expert witnesses for the examination of such processes.


One major challenge of any police enquiry is to filter out the distortions in the collection, collation and employment of the information on which all subsequent actions rely. These distortions may be produced by poor witness recall, deliberate obfuscation and deception, professional negligence or as a product of a variety of communication problems. The contributors to the volume tackle these and many related issues.


Recent developments in our understanding of the investigative interview process are covered in a number of insightful studies by leading researchers, combining academic rigour with direct practical relevance.


The wide range of topics covered in this volume will be of value and interest to all students of crime and its investigation as well as those who have a broader interest in interviewing and the assessment of information from naturally occurring accounts. Social scientists and those psychologists concerned to develop their understanding of accounts of crime will find the volume of particular utility, as will all those in law enforcement who wish to see an improvement in these crucial aspects of all criminal investigations.