Conducting Interviews – Concise Guide

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This is a concise summary of the Society for Psychical Research (SPR)'s guide for conducting interviews. You can find the original versions here and here.


1. Building Rapport

  • Exchange pleasantries and small talk to put witnesses at ease.

  • Establish a good relationship before delving into details.

  • Introduce yourself and any companions.

2. Before the Visit

  • Never go alone; bring a companion and encourage the witness to do the same.

  • Obtain a brief overview: what happened, where, when, who was present.

  • Understand the witness’s expectations and desired outcome.

  • Review any supporting evidence (photos, recordings) before offering opinions.

  • Only proceed with a full interview if both parties agree an investigation is desirable.

3. Interview Techniques

  • Choose a quiet location with minimal distractions.

  • Use audio recording (with consent) or take notes; offer a copy to the witness.

  • Allow witnesses to decline any question.

  • Encourage detailed accounts: actions before, during, and after the event.

  • Gentle prompting is fine; avoid leading, presumptive, or compound questions.

  • Ask witnesses to retell events in different orders or perspectives to identify gaps.

4. Gathering Additional Information

  • Interview other relevant witnesses (family, co-workers, locals).

  • Search records and archives for historical context.

  • Map locations and mark positions of witnesses and events.

  • Number multiple events for clarity.

5. Working with Vulnerable Individuals

  • Prioritize welfare of children or vulnerable persons.

  • Always have a responsible adult present; obtain consent for questions.

  • Avoid frightening or anxiety-inducing language; use child-friendly methods like drawings or demonstrations.

  • Stop the interview immediately if the child or vulnerable person is uncomfortable.

6. Dealing with Time-Wasters or Suspicious Cases

  • Watch for vague, inconsistent, or overly detailed accounts.

  • Conduct simple internet checks for previous claims or media attention.

  • Politely decline cases if uncomfortable or unable to assist.


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