What is the 'good cop, bad cop' technique?

The 'good cop, bad cop' technique is an established interrogation strategy that involves two officers adopting contrasting personas to elicit information from a subject. One officer typically takes on the role of the 'bad cop', using aggressive or confrontational tactics to create an atmosphere of pressure and intimidation. The other officer acts as the 'good cop', displaying empathy, understanding, and a willingness to listen. This dual approach aims to create a psychological dynamic where the subject feels more inclined to confide in the 'good cop' as a way to escape the discomfort posed by the 'bad cop'.

This method effectively leverages the natural human tendency to seek approval and relief from stress. By alternating these roles, interrogators can manipulate the subject's emotions, making them more compliant and likely to reveal information. It’s a classic tactic in law enforcement and interrogation settings, well-documented in both training materials and real-life applications.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe this technique. For example, involving only one officer does not leverage the contrasting dynamics inherent in the 'good cop, bad cop' approach. Additionally, establishing friendly relationships or focusing on psychological testing does not capture the essence of this specific interrogation strategy.