##  [Cognitive Interview](/cognitive-interview) 

  ##  [Cognitive Interview](https://defense.quantumdictionary.io/cognitive-interview-0) 

  

 [![Defense, Security & Public Safety Dictionary](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2026-01/Defense%2C%20Security%20%26%20Public%20Safety.png.webp?itok=3-v4M7xK)](/topic-specific-dictionaries/defense-security-public-safety)



**Defense, Security & Public Safety Dictionary**

 







 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

Definition

An evidence‑gathering interview technique for witnesses and victims that systematically uses memory‑reinstatement and varied retrieval strategies (for example: context reinstatement, free recall, varied retrieval order, and perspective change) to enhance accurate recall while minimizing leading or suggestive prompts; effective application requires practitioner training and adherence to non‑leading