Studies in phonographic recordings of verbal material: IV. Written reports of interviews

Abstract

Phonographic recordings of interviews were compared with reports written by the interviewer. Illustrations of incompleteness, lack of precise reporting, confusion of chronology, and ambiguities in the written reports are presented. The author suggests that, where interview records are to be used for research or instruction, they should be phonographically recorded. Where phonographic recording is not feasible, the author suggests ways of improving the report: The interviewer should have a clear understanding of the type of interviewing he is using. Notes should be made during the interview. The form the report takes should depend upon the use to be made of it. The report should be written in the first person. Statements of over-all inferences are helpful. The origin of material not from the interview should be indicated. Good grammar increases clarity. (See also 16: 2440, 2938.) (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)