What does "the attribution of blame" involve in an interrogation?

The concept of "the attribution of blame" in an interrogation refers to the process of establishing a narrative that assigns responsibility to the suspect for the actions in question. This approach involves presenting the facts and context of the situation in such a way that it becomes clear to the suspect that they played a significant role in the incident being investigated.

By creating a narrative that holds the suspect accountable, the interrogator can effectively guide the conversation towards eliciting a confession or obtaining more detailed information about the suspect's involvement. This technique relies on the psychological impact of accepting blame, as it often prompts individuals to engage more openly as they confront their actions and their implications.

Establishing this narrative is crucial for the effectiveness of the interrogation because it shapes the emotional response of the suspect and influences their behavior during the questioning process. Understanding this dynamic helps interrogators frame their questions and responses in a manner that supports the narrative they are creating.