Title: Interviewing Approach: Evaluating and Comparing the Reid and the P.E.A.C.E Model in Investigative Interviews
Authors: Okpa Basil Oyama
Volume: 9
Issue: 7
Pages: 67-76
Publication Date: 2025/07/28
Abstract:
This paper aims to evaluate and compare the Reid Technique and the P.E.A.C.E. Model as investigative interviewing approaches, utilizing a secondary source of data. The analysis is qualitative and descriptive, based on the content and documentary relevance of existing literature. The Reid Technique, originating in the US, is a widely used method that emphasizes confrontation and guilt presumption, but has faced criticism for potentially eliciting false confessions through psychological manipulation, as understood through Psychological Manipulation Theory. In contrast, the P.E.A.C.E. model, developed in the UK, offers a non-confrontational, information-gathering approach, grounded in principles of effective communication and empathy, which aligns with concepts from Social Influence Theory regarding rapport-building and ethical persuasion. This study explores the historical development and philosophical underpinnings of both models, highlighting their strengths and limitations in eliciting accurate information and confessions. Ultimately, the comparison seeks to inform best practices in investigative settings, aiming to improve the reliability of evidence obtained through interviews.