The practical relevance of investigative interviewing research: applying the EMMIE framework to bridge the research-practice gap

Investigative interviewing research has produced valuable insights into effective techniques for gathering information. However, this research often fails to fully bridge the gap between academia and practice. We argue that adopting the EMMIE framework – examining Effects, Mechanisms, Moderators, Implementation, and Economic costs – could enhance the practical relevance of investigative interviewing research. We reviewed recent meta-analyses showing studies address effects and moderators of interviewing techniques, while often neglecting mechanisms, implementation, and economic dimensions. This limits practitioners’ ability to make informed decisions about new methods. Future research should consider all five EMMIE dimensions to provide comprehensive understanding, facilitating standardized guidelines, revealing new research directions, and supporting an evidence repository for policymakers. We emphasize the importance of early researcher-practitioner collaboration to ensure findings apply in real-world settings. By embracing EMMIE and fostering partnerships, investigative interviewing research can better inform policy and practice, improving information gathering effectiveness.