Define the following terms.

Question

- Officer Attitude
- Physical Setting
- Opening Remarks
- Ventilation Period
- Investigative Questioning
- Concluding the Interview

Answer 1

Officer Attitude When interviewing a rape victim, the officer must realize that, from the victim’s viewpoint, what has occurred is a violent and perverted invasion of her “self.”
Physical Setting It is unreasonable to expect a rape victim to respond to detailed questioning while she is uncomfortable or in physical pain. Under conditions such as these, the preliminary interview should be brief, and the in-depth follow-up interview should be conducted after the victim has been medically examined and treated and her personal needs, such as washing and changing clothes, have been met.
Opening Remarks The opening remarks represent a critical point at which an officer must gain the victim’s confidence and let her know that a major part of the officer’s function is to help and to protect her. The officer should make clear his or her sympathy for and interest in the victim.
Ventilation Period After the opening remarks, the officer should allow the victim to direct the conversation into any area of concern to her. This “ventilation” period gives the victim an opportunity to relieve emotional tension.
Investigative Questioning After a ventilation period, the victim should be allowed to describe what occurred in her own words and without interruption. As the victim provides details about the rape, she will also relate a great deal about herself. Her mood and general reaction, her choice of words, and her comments on unrelated matters can be useful in evaluating the facts of the case.
Concluding the Interview As a result of having been raped, many victims suffer long-term emotional problems. Because of this, it is appropriate for the officer conducting the interview to determine whether the victim has sought assistance for any such problems.