The origin, experimental basis, and application of the standard interview method: An information-gathering framework

• Published in: Australian psychologist 2020-12, Vol.55 (6), p.645-659
• Main Authors: Powell, Martine B., Brubacher, Sonja P.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Basis; Behavioral sciences; evidence-based practice; Experimental research; Information gathering; interview guidelines; interview protocol; interview structure; Interviews; investigative interviewing; Knowledge base; Legislation; practice-based evidence; Qualitative research
• ISSN: 0005-0067; 1742-9544
• DOI: 10.1111/ap.12468

The standard interview method (SIM) is a guidance framework for information gathering interviews. This article describes the purpose, scope, origin, experimental basis, and practical application of the SIM. It provides an informative overview of developments to date for psychologists and researchers within the behavioural sciences, as well as for practitioners who might use the SIM. The SIM contains core evidence-based components but is otherwise open to tailoring and modifications to suit a variety of interviewing purposes such as policing, justice, education, and business. It provides an interview structure and exemplar dialogue, aligned with research into best-practice interview technique. A detailed overview of the SIM's interview phases, instructions, and exemplar dialogue is provided. The basis for these elements is explained in terms of the experimental and qualitative research that has informed their development. The SIM provides evidence-based guidance for investigative interviewers, and numerous versions have been created to suit different investigation types, interviewee groups, and jurisdictional or organisational requirements. It is continually refined as new findings from experimental research around best-practice interviewing emerge. Rather than a single entity or completed product, the SIM represents a dynamic evolution of research, collaboration, and testing. Its flexible nature will allow it to keep pace with the ever-progressing knowledge base that informs interview protocol and guidance development, and adapt to local cultures, legislation, processes, and systems of operation.