How should an investigator respond if a victim is having difficulty recalling details?

• A. Use empathetic prompts, allow time, and document uncertainty; seek corroboration from ancillary sources.
• B. Use empathetic prompts and allow time, while avoiding any cognitive interviewing techniques.
• C. Press the victim to recall quickly.
• D. Ignore memory gaps and proceed with statements.

Answer: (B)

When a victim has difficulty recalling details, the priority is to support memory retrieval in a safe, non-threatening way. Use empathetic prompts to help jog memory while staying non-leading, and give the person ample time to recall without rushing them. This patient approach reduces pressure, lowers the risk of distress or re-traumatization, and helps prevent false or distorted memories.

Document any uncertainty or gaps in memory so the record accurately reflects what is known and what remains unclear. Seek corroboration from ancillary sources when appropriate to triangulate information and strengthen reliability, rather than relying solely on a single memory. Avoid cognitive interviewing techniques in this context because they can introduce prompts or structures that may bias recall, especially for someone who’s currently distressed. The goal is a trauma-informed, survivor-centered interview that preserves memory integrity while supporting the person’s well-being.