Suspects' Verbal Counter-Interrogation Strategies: Towards an Integrative Model

In this chapter, we review the research on the bourgeoning field of suspects' counter-interrogation strategies. We argue that such research is fundamental to the development of empirically supported interview methods, specifically, interview methods designed to distinguish between truth telling and lying suspects. The chapter begins by illustrating some basic psychological differences between truth tellers and liars (e.g. differences with regards to information management), and how these differences may result in unique counter-interrogation strategies (e.g. truth tellers will generally employ forthcoming strategies, while liars will be more restrictive with providing information). Following this, a causal model is tentatively suggested, indicating how (a) suspect-related, (b) interview-related and (c) crime-related factors can influence a suspect's choice of counter-interrogation strategies. The empirical research is then presented and organized based on this model. Suggestions for future research are proposed before concluding remarks.