The purpose of an MSE is to prepare forensic psychologists for their work with suspects, witnesses, or victims of a crime. The psychologist is interested in an interviewee’s ability to recall details, his or her emotional state, and his or her resolve in the face of intense questioning.
In Part I of this assignment, you observe an interviewer asking questions that shed light on these traits and abilities. You use the MSE template to record your observations of the interviewee’s behavior.
There are important differences between this exercise and “real life.” In “real life” the victim of the crime could speak for herself, but in this exercise the only evidence is the videotaped interview and the grainy film from a simulated security camera. Also, in “real life” you would probably have only one chance to interview the witness; in this exercise, you are able to observe the interview multiple times.
To prepare for this Application Assignment:
Read all of the required Learning Resources. View the simulated security camera video footage in the media, conduct a Mental Status Exam, found in this week’s Learning Resources Review the MSE template before viewing the MSE media. Complete the MSE template while viewing the MSE video. Be sure to cite evidence that supports your observations.
For Part 2 of this Assignment, you will write a 3– to 5–page report based on your observations. The report is designed to summarize your observations and provide recommendations for fellow professionals.
To prepare for this Assignment:
Review the MSE template that you completed in Part 1. Read the sample MSE report included in the Learning Resources. Read the Gordon & Fleischer chapter on writing a report. Read the forensic report writing tips at forensicmind.com. (Note: Bear in mind that these tips are directed at forensic psychiatrists, not forensic interviewers. As a forensic interviewer, you will not be diagnosing mental disorders, prescribing medication, judging the effects of medication, etc.) Review the APA Professional Guidelines (Week 1 Learning Resources).
The Assignment:
Submit the MSE Template and a 3– to 5–page report that contains two sections:
1. Summary of observations Summary of each component area of the MSE. Provide examples from the video.
2. Recommendations for fellow mental health and legal professionals that include:
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity. Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 7
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/244950/modules/items/10678207
Tailored interview strategies Interview setting Recommended time of day for interview Friends or family members who should (or should not) be present in the interview setting Any additional factors that might impact the interview
Support your observations and recommendations by citing the Learning Resources.
Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area.