Trauma affects each person differently, and for professionals conducting interviews with trauma survivors, it’s crucial to recognize these varied responses. Professionals with advocacy groups are well-versed in these matters, but for law enforcement dealing with both suspects and victims, the nuances can be rather complicated. Without the proper training, it can be difficult if not impossible to accurately obtain information from a victim.
One of the most significant ways trauma affects survivors is through memory disruption. Contrary to what some may believe, trauma doesn’t enhance memory clarity. In fact, it can have the opposite effect.
Effects on Memory and Communication
Traumatic events often overwhelm the brain’s ability to process information, leading to fragmented or incomplete memories. A survivor may remember certain details vividly, while other key aspects might be unclear or entirely absent. For example, the color of the perpetrator’s shirt might escape their memory, yet they can describe the car seat fabric in perfect detail. To someone who isn’t familiar with trauma responses, this can seem frustratingly irrelevant. Fortunately, there are interview techniques to help focus on these types of “retrieval cues” that can bring other details to light for the investigation.
Moreover, survivors may struggle to convey their thoughts in a linear, chronological manner. Because trauma can alter how a person communicate, they may jump between events, find it difficult to articulate certain parts of their experience, or seem confused about the sequence of what happened. This can sometimes result in the individual’s testimony being perceived as inconsistent, even though it is a natural byproduct of trauma. These communication difficulties are not a sign of deception but rather a result of the brain’s attempt to cope with and make sense of overwhelming emotions.
Interviewers must understand these effects to avoid pressing for details too forcefully or misinterpreting fragmented memories as dishonesty. By recognizing that trauma can distort memory and communication, interviewers can create an environment where survivors feel supported rather than judged.
Recognizing Signs of Trauma During Interviews
The emotional and psychological effects of trauma manifest in numerous ways. Importantly, trauma does not always present in an obvious manner. Some survivors might appear calm and composed, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t struggling internally. That’s why it’s essential to create an environment that allows for open, non-pressured communication, where survivors can feel safe and understood.
During an interview, some individuals may appear visibly distressed, showing signs of anxiety such as sweating, fidgeting, or difficulty maintaining eye contact. While these behaviors might traditionally be interpreted as nervousness or guilt, it’s important to realize that they can often be indicators of trauma. Other physical signs might include shaking or hyperventilating, which can result from the body’s fight-or-flight response.
In some cases, trauma can cause individuals to dissociate, where they feel disconnected from their surroundings or emotions. They might present as detached or distant, exhibiting a flat affect or seeming emotionally numb. This withdrawal is not an indication of dishonesty but rather a protective response to overwhelming emotions. If dissociation is already occurring, it can be difficult for someone to engage fully with the interviewer. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize it early and adjust the approach. Otherwise, the memory gaps and difficulty with recall might only get worse.
The Solution: Training and Soft Interview Rooms
The goal is to gather the most accurate evidence possible. By creating a supportive, trauma-informed environment and employing research-backed techniques, public safety professionals can overcome potential setbacks and significantly improve the effectiveness of their interview process—regardless of the case.
Trauma-informed interview techniques not only reduce stress on survivors but also enhance the quality of the information gathered. By investing in trauma-informed training programs, agencies can ensure that their team members are equipped to handle even the most sensitive cases with care, empathy, and professionalism.
Committing to ongoing training and facility upgrades is critical, and developing a soft interview room with fully integrated recording equipment can help. The right environment and tools to collect the vital information being gathered can make all the difference in the case. For that, iRecord can help! Contact us today to learn more about our partnerships with soft interview room experts and our discrete recording solutions.