Eliciting information through subtle topic steering

Purpose The study aims to examine subtle topic steering, a novel research area in investigative interviewing. Subtle topic steering concerns how to elicit information from interviewees on a specific topic without disclosing one’s information objectives. In a new lab-based design the authors explore how active handlers approach this task. Design/methodology/approach In the study 27 active handlers were tasked with obtaining 15 specific pieces of information from mock sources, and to do so in a manner that did not disclose what pieces of information they were after. Findings In an exploratory thematic analysis, the authors identified three broad practices handlers used to steer a conversation in a subtle manner: topic steering by use of another topic; topic steering by returning to a previously discussed topic; and topic steering by using misleading information. Research limitations/implications The authors note several limitations with the lab-based procedure and suggest ways in which it can be improved in future research on the topic. Originality/value Sometimes, interviewers need to mask their information objectives from sources. However, to date, there is little evidence-based advice on subtle topic steering. The current research provides an initial exploration of this field.