From criminal interrogations to investigative interviews: a bibliometric study.

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Criminology
• Psychology

Background:

• Criminal interrogations and investigative interviews are critical components of the justice system.
• A comprehensive understanding of the existing research landscape is needed for both academics and practitioners.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a bibliometric overview of social science research on criminal interrogations and investigative interviews since the 1900s.
• To facilitate better communication and dialogue between researchers and practitioners in this field.
• To help researchers and practitioners understand the breadth of scientific knowledge and identify research gaps.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of research articles.
• Database development using Web of Science.
• Analysis of publication trends, journals, research areas, authors, institutions, and countries.
• Keyword and citation analysis, including examination of questionable tactics and techniques.

Main Results:

• Detailed yearly evolution of publications in criminal interrogations and investigative interviews.
• Identification of leading journals, prolific authors, key institutions, and prominent countries in the field.
• Mapping of research areas and frequently used keywords, with a focus on questionable interrogation tactics.

Conclusions:

• The study offers a critical overview of the research landscape, benefiting both researchers and practitioners.
• Identifies trends and key contributors in the field of criminal interrogations and investigative interviews.
• Provides a foundation for future research and evidence-based practices in interviewing and interrogation.