What should be a primary focus during an interview to ensure effectiveness?

Focusing on analyzing the suspect’s verbal and non-verbal cues is essential during an interview to ensure effectiveness. This approach allows the interviewer to gain deeper insight into the suspect’s mental state and truthfulness. By paying attention to body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and choice of words, the interviewer can detect inconsistencies or signs of deception that may not be evident through verbal communication alone.

Moreover, this analysis can guide the interviewer in adapting their strategy and line of questioning based on the suspect’s reactions. For instance, if a suspect exhibits signs of discomfort during a specific question, it may warrant further exploration of that topic. Understanding these cues also aids in building rapport, as the interviewer can adjust their approach to make the suspect feel more comfortable and willing to share information.

The other options fail to capture this pivotal aspect of communication. Rigidly following a script may hinder the dynamic nature of the interview and prevent the interviewer from responding to the suspect's immediate reactions. Keeping the interview brief may lead to sacrificing essential details and the opportunity for deeper exploration of critical topics. Finally, while avoiding confrontation can be an effective tactic, an outright avoidance may limit the interviewer’s ability to elicit vital information, especially if the suspect is evasive or