The Theoretical Basis of the Technique of Context Reinstatement in the Cognitive Interview

Abstract

In reporting a crime the victims and witnesses have a decisive role. In the area of psychology of testimony, much has been advanced in the methods of investigative interviews, being the Cognitive Interview currently the most consolidated around the world. The aim of this study was to perform a narrative review of the literature about one of the techniques of the Cognitive Interview: context reinstatement. Many studies attribute the success the Cognitive Interview has in optimizing the quantity and quality in recalled information largely to context reinstatement. The theoretical bases of memory were analyzed to explain the mechanisms context reinstatement triggers that favor recall. Its positive effects have direct relation with the notion of context-dependent memory and with the principle of encoding specificity. Finally, we point out some limitations, as well as new ways to use the technique.