Which response is crucial during the narrative gathering phase?

Listening to the entire story without disruption is essential during the narrative gathering phase because it allows the individual providing the information to express their thoughts and experiences fully. This uninterrupted flow encourages a more comprehensive and accurate account, enabling the officer to gather all relevant details without influencing the speaker’s responses.

When someone is allowed to narrate their story freely, it often reveals emotions, context, and subtleties that may not emerge in a more structured or leading questioning style. This approach fosters an atmosphere of trust and openness, which can lead to a more truthful and complete narrative.

The goal during this phase is to understand the individual’s perspective fully, making it easier to identify key elements of their story that are crucial for further investigation or assessment. Furthermore, maintaining an uninterrupted dialogue helps establish rapport, which can be vital in working with juveniles who may be hesitant to share their experiences.