{2:15 minutes to read} In this article, we conclude our discussion (see Part I) about the use of collateral sources in forensic evaluation by examining five problems that can limit the accuracy of collateral interviews—and ways for the evaluator to manage those problems.

1. Reluctance: The collateral source (the person being interviewed) is reluctant to participate or has concerns about personal consequences for his or her participation.

Management of problem: Explain the purpose of the evaluation and discuss the voluntary nature of participation.

2. Bias: The collateral source has a lack of impartiality.

Management of problem: Factor in the bias in the assessment of collateral sources by assigning different weights to each one. Obtain information from as many sources as possible and develop conclusions based on trends rather than on a single source’s observations.

3. Lack of expertise: The source lacks specific training or experience in the construct being assessed, such as psychopathology.

Management of problem: Start with more general questions, then focus the questions on specific behaviors the source has witnessed. Questions should be limited to observations; refrain from asking questions that lead to conclusions. It is not the job of the collateral source to draw a conclusion on the assessed party’s particular skill (such as parenting). 

4. Suggestibility: The source is influenced by leading questions. 

Management of problem: Move away from specific questions and pay attention to how the inquiries are phrased. 

5. Memory loss: The source has trouble remembering observations accurately.

Management of problem: Provide nonsensitive memory aids such as age and location.

Have you encountered any of these challenges when interviewing collateral sources? How did you manage them? I look forward to your comment or questions. Please contact me at nycforensics@gmail.com.

Dr. Alberto Yohananoff
NYC Forensics
dryohananoff@nycforensics.com
P: (646) 284-5600
F: (212) 706-9136

Posted in Forensic Evaluations