Tradecraft Primer: A Framework for Aspiring Interrogators is a timely and relevant reference manual for a new generation of professionals as we enter a new era in our nation's interrogation programs. A must-read for anyone thinking of entering the interrogation profession, whether in law enforcement, the military, or intelligence, it provides fresh insights from the latest empirical-based studies that will enhance your results and contribute to best practices. It challenges past beliefs and legacy interrogation practices of previous generations by capturing novel approaches that no longer rely on physical and psychological coercion, unethical or questionable ruses, or abusive mistreatment.

Importantly, this primer also opens the door to valuable lessons from contemporary experts in human motivation and more effective social influence methodologies and tactics while you learn of the art and science behind rapport-building, effective communication constructs, and the influence of interpersonal and intrapersonal dynamics for use inside the interrogation room. In addition, it captures the "interrogation cycle" as a handy reference graphic. By reading this primer, you will learn how to reduce incidences of false confessions, mitigate eyewitness misidentification, and gain simple contemporary insights to outsmart liars and discern truth-tellers from deceivers.

As an advocate for a sea change in the way our nation's interrogation programs are run and managed, this primer encourages a team approach to interrogations and emphasizes active engagement and oversight by supervisors in efforts to corroborate interrogation outcomes. It also asserts the need for the adoption of a common code of ethics shared among all practitioners-an ethical code created in deference to our nation's Constitution, statutes, international treaties, and the policies of our nation's leaders. One that encompasses the pledge and built on two underlying principles: Do no harm and respect human rights.

About the Author
Paul Charles Topalian possesses nearly 30 years as an intelligence professional with considerable overseas experience in Asia and Europe. His foundational expertise in this primer is built on assignments with the United States military, the intelligence community, and law enforcement. He holds a BA from Norwich University and earned his MS from Salve Regina University and his MA from the US Naval War College. He is proud recipient of several national-level intelligence awards for both personal and team achievements in support of some of our nation's top intelligence requirements. He can be contacted at tradecraftprimer@gmail.com.

Reviews

This book, as the title suggests, is a primer for those who aspire to practice interrogation as a vocation. It is a solid reference for any interrogator. The books and articles referenced are outstanding for further study and suited for in-depth study accompanied by practical experience.

Mark Roberts, Subject Matter Expert-book review in the Journal of Strategic Studies, Vol. 9, No. 4, Winter 2016

There is a great deal of information in this relatively small book, and it updates the reader on new theories of interviewing for the 21st century. An excellent bibliography of military and psychological references will be especially welcome to researchers and the academic community. The author's concluding thoughts ring true: "Do no harmaEURO"respect human rights." The book is highly recommended for investigative and intelligence specialists.

Adrian A. Barnie, CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner), CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist)-book review in ASIS International, April 2018

Book Information
ISBN 9781498751148
Author Paul Charles Topalian
Format Paperback
Page Count 140
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
Weight(grams) 244g