NCJ Number
211104
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 74 Issue: 8 Dated: August 2005 Pages: 13-20
Date Published
August 2005
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article outlines several major theories of deviance that can aid criminal investigators in their interrogations with suspects.
Abstract
The interrogation of a criminal suspect is one of the most critical components of an investigation and in some cases can often offer the only evidence officers have. Officers generally present three main themes when convincing suspects they should confess: rationalizations, projections of blame, and minimizations. Theme-driven interrogations can be highly effective, especially when the themes are informed by decades of social science research. Several main criminological theories are explained in order to help officers develop themes to present to suspects that will be likely to lead to a confession. Among the criminological perspectives outlined are the classical perspective, rational choice theory, biological and psychological explanations, social condition explanations, and social process theories. These perspectives are often present in the themes developed by officers during interrogation even absent a formal education; developing a deeper understanding of the theories derived from social science research will aid officers during criminal suspect interrogations. Exhibits