by Jaimela King

Created on: May 11, 2009

The code of ethics of the of the Society of Professional Journalists suggests that Journalists should act independently, minimize harm, look for the truth, report it and that they should be accountable. These are of course broad suggestions and could be interpreted as seen fit by the individual journalist or news media. The charge to seek truth and report can often be in conflict with the responsibility of minimizing harm. When interviewing victims of traumatic events, this charge becomes particularly significant.

While it is not always possible to prepare fully for every interview, you should always make this an essential step in the interviewing process. You can obtain information about the subject by reading any related articles, documents, police reports, witness statements, searching your own archives and information from associates in the field. Find out all you can about the person or persons you will be interviewing and ask for supporting documents and additional sources that they may be able to provide.

Arrive early so you can get a feel for the place where your subject works or lives. Look around, make mental notes of anything the will add to your story or generate new interview questions. Be friendly and polite and try to engage co-workers or family and friends you may encounter. That nosy neighbor peering over the fence may be just what you need to add some spice to your story. This would be an ideal time to get input from the subject concerning seating arrangements, to set the guidelines for the interview and for clarifying the interview topic.

Once you are ready to start the interview,let the subject know you sympathize with their plight. Assess whether the subject is able to speak to you or if any help is needed to do so. This is the critical part of getting your story. Keep your code of ethics firmly in your mind during the course of the interview as a guideline when asking questions and conducting yourself. First. Place the interviewer at ease. A little off -the- record dialogue about the weather, work or life, will serve to engage the subject and break the ice. You can come up with your own creative ways to do this.

Get the basics. This is what you are here to do but even though you may have a list of set to ask, there are many more that you could ask to give you a better picture . Don't be afraid to probe further and explore something that could add a different spin to your story. When dealing with victims of trauma, a long

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