From: jcs
Behavior-provoking questions are a specific type of interrogation technique used to elicit different responses from innocent versus deceptive individuals [00:00:28]. These questions are designed to reveal behavioral cues that can indicate guilt or innocence during an interrogation [00:00:29].
Characteristics and Responses
The Question Itself
A common behavior-provoking question asks the suspect what they believe should happen to the person who committed the crime [00:00:25].
Responses from Innocent Individuals
An innocent person typically provides a “draconian response” [00:00:32]. This means they will immediately suggest the harshest possible sentence for the crime they are being falsely accused of committing [00:00:35]. For example, when asked what should be done to the guy who took the children, Chris, at an early stage, suggested “life in prison” [00:01:02].
Responses from Deceptive Individuals
In contrast, a deceptive individual often gives an “equivocating response” [00:00:41]. This involves fragmenting or diverting from the question to avoid responding to it entirely [00:00:45]. For instance, when asked what should happen if the children were hurt, Chris shifted his answer, questioning if the death penalty was even used in Colorado [00:01:20]. He further equivocated by stating that if the kids were not alive, “there’s nothing you could do” to cope with that [00:01:28]. This difference in response can be a key indicator in innocent versus guilty behavior during interrogations [00:00:32].