To clarify information and close an interview with a victim, which action should be avoided?

To clarify information and close an interview with a victim, which action should be avoided?

• A. Avoid asking specific questions about the length of time and distance
• B. Offer reassurance
• C. Answer questions and provide follow-up services and contact info
• D. Ask for the victim's attorney's contact information

Answer: (A)

When you’re clarifying information and closing an interview with a victim, memory under trauma can be unreliable, and pressing for exact timings or distances can feel invasive or retraumatizing. Avoid asking for precise details about how long something lasted or how far it occurred, because these specifics may not be recalled accurately and can undermine trust. Instead, focus on getting the overall sequence of events and the key factors that affected what happened, using open, nonleading questions and then restating what you heard to confirm accuracy. Offer reassurance and provide clear information about available follow-up services and how to stay in touch for questions or additional help. Answering questions the victim has and sharing contact information for resources supports safety and continued support. Asking for the victim’s attorney’s contact information isn’t necessary in every situation and should only occur if the victim indicates they have legal representation and wants that connection, so it isn’t needed as a default closing step.

When you’re clarifying information and closing an interview with a victim, memory under trauma can be unreliable, and pressing for exact timings or distances can feel invasive or retraumatizing. Avoid asking for precise details about how long something lasted or how far it occurred, because these specifics may not be recalled accurately and can undermine trust. Instead, focus on getting the overall sequence of events and the key factors that affected what happened, using open, nonleading questions and then restating what you heard to confirm accuracy.

Offer reassurance and provide clear information about available follow-up services and how to stay in touch for questions or additional help. Answering questions the victim has and sharing contact information for resources supports safety and continued support. Asking for the victim’s attorney’s contact information isn’t necessary in every situation and should only occur if the victim indicates they have legal representation and wants that connection, so it isn’t needed as a default closing step.