Good Communication Skills in Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice

1. Only guilty people show signs of nervousness during an interrogation. True or False?

2. When a police officer tells dispatch that he is going “off duty,” he is using which type of communication?

3. What is the recommended method for officers to communicate with each other and other agencies according to the Department of Homeland Security?

4. What is the first goal of a behavior analysis interview?

1. False.

2. The answer is Law Enforcement Jargon.

3. It recommends using Signal codes for communication.

4. The first goal of a behavior analysis interview is to establish authority.

Good communication skills are vital in law enforcement and criminal justice. While it may seem easy to determine guilt based on signs of nervousness during an interrogation, it's important to remember that not everyone reacts the same way under pressure. People who are innocent may also exhibit signs of nervousness simply due to the stressful situation.

When a police officer notifies dispatch that they are going “off duty,” they are using law enforcement jargon to quickly convey information about their status or actions. This type of communication allows for efficient and effective transmission of information within the police force.

The Department of Homeland Security recommends that officers primarily use signal codes to communicate with each other and other agencies. This ensures that important information is shared securely and clearly, preventing misunderstandings or unauthorized access to sensitive information.

In a behavior analysis interview, the first goal is to establish authority. By establishing authority, the interviewer can create a structured environment that helps in eliciting truthful information from the suspect. This step is crucial in the investigative process.