Interviewing techniques

Definition

Interviewing techniques are methods used by journalists to effectively engage with subjects, particularly when discussing sensitive topics or traumatic experiences. These techniques are critical in trauma-informed reporting, as they help build trust and rapport, allowing interviewees to share their stories in a safe and respectful environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Establishing trust is key in interviewing techniques, especially in trauma-informed reporting; it can help interviewees feel safe enough to share their experiences.
2. Interviewers should be mindful of body language and tone, as these non-verbal cues can significantly impact the interviewee's comfort level.
3. It's important for interviewers to remain patient and allow for pauses during the conversation, giving interviewees time to process their thoughts and emotions.
4. Using trauma-informed interviewing techniques can help minimize re-traumatization by creating a space where the interviewee feels empowered to share only what they are comfortable discussing.
5. Follow-up questions should be sensitive and tailored to the emotional state of the interviewee, ensuring that the conversation remains supportive and respectful.

Review Questions

• How do effective interviewing techniques foster trust between journalists and interviewees, particularly in sensitive situations?
  • Effective interviewing techniques foster trust by prioritizing the emotional well-being of the interviewee. Techniques such as active listening and empathy help create a supportive environment where the interviewee feels understood and respected. This trust is crucial when dealing with sensitive subjects, as it encourages the interviewee to open up about their experiences without fear of judgment or misrepresentation.
• In what ways can an interviewer’s body language and tone influence the outcome of an interview focused on trauma?
  • An interviewer’s body language and tone play a significant role in shaping the emotional atmosphere of the interview. Positive body language, like maintaining eye contact and nodding, along with a calm and compassionate tone, can help put the interviewee at ease. Conversely, negative cues or an aggressive tone can create tension or anxiety, potentially leading to a breakdown in communication or causing the interviewee to withdraw from sharing their experiences.
• Evaluate the importance of using open-ended questions in interviews related to trauma. How does this approach affect the depth of responses?
  • Using open-ended questions is essential in trauma-related interviews because they encourage detailed and meaningful responses from interviewees. This approach allows individuals to express their thoughts and feelings more freely, providing richer context and deeper insights into their experiences. By avoiding yes/no questions, journalists can better understand the complexities of trauma while also respecting the interviewee's narrative, leading to a more nuanced portrayal of their story.

Related terms

Active Listening: A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the interviewee says.

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another, crucial for creating a supportive environment during interviews.

Open-Ended Questions: Questions that cannot be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no,' encouraging more detailed responses from interviewees.