How should an interviewer handle emotional responses from victims during interviews?

Being empathetic and allowing victims to express their emotions is crucial in an interview setting, particularly when dealing with sensitive subjects such as trauma or victimization. Emotional responses can be significant indicators of a victim’s experience and may provide vital context to the information they share.

When an interviewer shows empathy, it helps to build trust and rapport, making the victim feel safe and understood. This, in turn, can lead to more open communication and a willingness to share details that may be difficult to convey. By recognizing and validating their feelings, the interviewer creates an environment that fosters a more comprehensive understanding of the victim’s perspective.

Encouraging emotional expression can also help the victim process their own feelings, which may lead to clearer recollection of events. This approach not only respects the victim's experience but also enhances the quality of the information gathered during the interview.

The alternative approaches would hinder the interview process by possibly alienating the victim or minimizing their experiences, which could result in less reliable information and a negative interviewing atmosphere.