Many strategies for interviewing and questioning people have been explored over time. Some seem to stand the test of time, others falter. Two such methods that were used over time were the Reid technique, developed by John E. Reid with the assistance of Fred E. Inbau, and the hypnosis technique. The similarities and differences of all techniques are what determine their success or failure. An examination of the Reid technique and hypnosis will reveal why one is still used today and the other is rarely used. The discovery of hypnosis dates back centuries. Already in the 18th century Franz Mesmer “was the first to propose a rational basis for the effects of hypnosis”. (Discover the History of Hypnosis: A Fascinating Topic!, n.d.) Over time, various scholars have contributed to the understanding and use of hypnotism. Even today it is a widely known technique, although few actually understand how hypnotism works or how to induce it. Today it is widely used for mental health reasons, however it is still sometimes used to help a victim or witness remember details that could be key to identifying the suspect. The Reid technique was born from a compassionate man, John Reid, who had an interest in human behavior. In the 1930s, the main tools used for interrogations consisted of intense and intimidating questions, using the very rudimentary technique of the polygraph. (Inbau, Reid, Buckley, & Jayne, 2013, p. vii) In search of a technique that was more effective, Reid began to observe the behaviors of subjects who were being interviewed or interrogated and created a distinct pattern of behaviors and a systematic succession of such behaviors. (Inbau, Reid, Buckley, & Jayne, 2...... half of paper ......ormation Institute. Inbau, F.E., Reid, J.E., Buckley, J.P., & Jayne, BC (2013). Criminal Interrogation and Confessions (fifth ed.). Chicago: Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC. http://www.reid.com/educational_info/critictechnique.htmlDiscover the History of Hypnosis: A Fascinating Subject (n.d.) Retrieved 4 27, 2014, from History of Hypnosis RSS: http ://www.historyofhypnosis.org/Ramsland , K. (n.d.). Forensic Hypnosis for Memory Enhancement Retrieved 4 27, 2014, from Forensic Hypnosis — — Crime Library: http://www.crimelibrary.com/criminal_mind/forensics. /hypnosis/1.htmlSanow, E. (2011, November). The Reid Technique of Interviewing and Interrogation Law and Order. www.reid.com/pdfs/20111213.pdf