Communication
Communication; the transmission of information. This crucial aspect of human interaction bridges understanding, empowers action, and shapes responses to imminent dangers.
In this issue of CREST Security Review (CSR), we unravel the behavioural and social science behind communication’s role in deciphering, managing, and countering threats.
We start by exploring the complex process of sensemaking and disclosure in investigative interviews. David A. Neequaye introduces a sensemaking approach that sheds light on individual motivations for divulging information, followed by Mattias Sjoberg’s latest research on Taylor’s Cylinder Model for understanding sensemaking, especially in suspect interactions. Lastly, Nick van der Klok et al. investigate negotiators’ potential to accelerate their influence over a suicidal person in crisis.
Continuing, we delve into the vital components of trust and rapport in communication; Lina Hillner examines the impact of perceived interviewer trustworthiness, while Lorraine Hope navigates strategies for overcoming cross-cultural challenges in rapport building.
Shifting our focus to misconceptions, Vincent Denault and Aldert Vrij challenge traditional beliefs about nonverbal communication, offering insights into its role in discerning truth from deception.
Moving forward, we explore the significance of information sharing in security. Dana Roemling and Jack Grieve shed light on the underestimated tool of forensic authorship analysis, while Becky Phythian discusses enhancing law enforcement through improved information-sharing practices.
Finally, we explore how technology shapes communication dynamics. Laura G. E. Smith investigates digital traces of offline mobilisation, Laura Stevens examines digital technologies in documenting gender-based violence, Anastasia Kordoni explores language’s role in expressing social identities and influencing online communities, and Marc Kydd et al. discuss enhancing romance fraud prevention.
Additionally, we feature articles addressing broader aspects of security research: Nadine Salman and Zainab Al-Attar examine the contextual relevance of neurodivergence within extremist populations, Austin Doctor et al. investigate how militant leaders’ exposure to violence predicts their tactics and strategies, Rachel Monaghan and Bianca Slocombe analyse the prosecution landscape for extremist actors in the UK, and Joel Busher et al. delve into radicalisation and counter-radicalisation research.
For further exploration, refer to the ‘Read More’ section for research underpinning our articles and additional reading. We value your feedback on this issue and welcome your suggestions for future topics. Please share your thoughts via the survey link.
Thank you.
Rebecca Stevens
Editor, CSR.