8.3 Interviewing techniques and skills

Interviewing techniques and skills are crucial for social workers to build effective helping relationships. From structured approaches to specialized techniques like motivational interviewing, these methods enable practitioners to gather information, encourage change, and support clients effectively.

Mastering questioning techniques, nonverbal communication, and cultural sensitivity enhances the interview process. By employing probing questions, interpreting body language, and adapting to diverse cultural norms, social workers can create a supportive environment for clients to share their experiences and work towards positive outcomes.

Interview Formats

Structured and Semi-Structured Approaches

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• Structured interviews follow a predetermined set of questions asked in a specific order
  • Ensures consistency across multiple interviews
  • Useful for comparing responses between different interviewees
  • Limits flexibility to explore unexpected topics
• Semi-structured interviews combine planned questions with the ability to deviate
  • Allows for follow-up questions based on interviewee responses
  • Provides a balance between consistency and adaptability
  • Enables deeper exploration of specific areas of interest
• Both formats require careful preparation of questions beforehand
  • Questions should be clear, concise, and relevant to the interview's purpose
  • Avoid leading questions that may bias responses

Specialized Interview Techniques

• Motivational interviewing focuses on encouraging behavior change
  • Emphasizes collaborative approach between interviewer and interviewee
  • Uses reflective listening to understand the interviewee's perspective
  • Aims to resolve ambivalence and increase motivation for change
  • Particularly effective in addiction counseling and health behavior modification
• Solution-focused interviews concentrate on identifying and building upon strengths
  • Shifts focus from problems to solutions and positive outcomes
  • Utilizes scaling questions to measure progress and set goals
  • Encourages interviewees to envision their preferred future
  • Helps clients recognize their own resources and capabilities

Questioning Techniques

Effective Probing and Summarizing

• Probing questions delve deeper into initial responses
  • Open-ended questions encourage detailed explanations (Tell me more about...)
  • Clarifying questions seek additional information or context (What do you mean by...?)
  • Reflective questions encourage self-examination (How did that make you feel?)
• Summarizing involves restating key points to ensure understanding
  • Demonstrates active listening and engagement with the interviewee
  • Provides opportunities for correction or clarification
  • Helps organize information and transition between topics
  • Can be used to refocus the conversation if it strays off-topic

Advanced Interviewing Strategies

• Confrontation techniques address discrepancies or inconsistencies
  • Gently point out contradictions in statements or behaviors
  • Used to challenge self-destructive thoughts or actions
  • Requires tact and sensitivity to maintain rapport
  • Can lead to increased self-awareness and motivation for change
• Silence serves as a powerful tool in interviews
  • Allows interviewees time to reflect and formulate responses
  • Can prompt elaboration on previously stated information
  • Demonstrates patience and respect for the interviewee's thought process
  • Should be used judiciously to avoid discomfort or awkwardness

Nonverbal Communication

Body Language Interpretation and Cultural Sensitivity

• Body language interpretation enhances understanding of unspoken messages
  • Facial expressions convey emotions (raised eyebrows, furrowed brow)
  • Posture indicates comfort level and engagement (leaning forward, crossed arms)
  • Eye contact signals attentiveness and honesty (varies culturally)
  • Gestures can emphasize points or reveal nervousness (hand movements)
• Cultural sensitivity in interviewing acknowledges diverse communication norms
  • Recognize that nonverbal cues may have different meanings across cultures
  • Be aware of personal space preferences in various cultural contexts
  • Understand cultural variations in directness of communication
  • Respect cultural taboos regarding touch or certain topics of discussion
• Developing cultural competence improves interview effectiveness
  • Research cultural norms before interviews with diverse populations
  • Avoid making assumptions based on stereotypes or generalizations
  • Be open to learning from interviewees about their cultural perspectives
  • Adapt interviewing style to accommodate cultural differences when appropriate