How to interview terrorists? A forensic psychiatrist experience

Abstract

Introduction

Because of their intrinsic characteristics, forensic interviews with terrorist suspects are perhaps one of the most challenging interviews forensic psychiatrists and psychologists will experience.

Objectives

This work presents a theoretical and practical framework for understanding terrorist individual psychology and effective interviewing techniques. It will show how the psychopathology of the terrorist, as well as social factors, have to be integrated in the preparation of the interview and in the interviewing process itself.

Methods

Forty-eight incarcerated Middle Eastern terrorists (1 women and 47 men) have been interviewed. These terrorists were involved – directly or indirectly – in several attacks claimed by Al-Qaeda or ISIS. Verbal communications were evaluated through questions and key points related to personality disorders described in the DSM-V. Non-verbal communications were analyzed through modalities such as facial expressions, eye contact, and body gestures.

Results

Several verbal and nonverbal characteristics have been identified as common in all the interviewees.

Conclusions

In a way to improve the quality and the quantity of the information gathering, it is suggested, especially with terrorists (but not only), to based the investigative and forensic interviewing on a personality-focused approach. Further studies are also needed to evaluate if terrorists have specific communication skills. Finally, this work proves that indirect assessment, such as consulting records, interviewing partners, family members or friends, is very important in the terrorist forensic assessment.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.