Many strategies for interviewing and interrogation of individuals have been explored over time. Some seem to stand the test of time, others falter. Two such methods that have been used over time are 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 determine their success or failure. An examination of the Reid Technique and hypnosis will reveal why one is still used today and the other rarely used. The discovery of hypnosis dates back several centuries. As early as 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 subject!, nd) Over time, various researchers have contributed to the understanding and use of hypnosis. It is still a widely known technique today, although few people actually understand how hypnotism works or how to induce it. Today, it is widely used for mental health reasons, but it is still sometimes used to help a victim or witness remember details that may be key to identifying the suspect. The Reid Technique was born from a compassionate man, John Reid, who was interested in human behavior. In the 1930s, the primary tools used for interrogations were intense and intimidating interrogations, using the very rudimentary polygraph technique. (Inbau, Reid, Buckley, & Jayne, 2013, p. vii) In his quest to find a more effective technique, Reid began observing the behaviors of interviewees or interviewees and realized a distinct pattern of behaviors and a routine succession of these behaviors. (Inbau, Reid, Buckley, & Jayne, 2...... middle of article ......ormation Institute.Inbau, FE, Reid, JE, Buckley, JP, & Jayne, BC (2013). Criminal Questioning and Confessions (fifth edition ed.). Chicago: Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC. John E. Reid & Associates, Inc. (n.d.). Retrieved April 27, 2014 from John E. . Reid & Associates, Inc.: http://www.reid.com/educational_info/critictechnique.htmlDiscover the history of hypnosis - a fascinating subject (nd). http.://www.historyofhypnosis.org/Ramsland, K. (nd). Forensic Hypnosis for Memory Enhancement. Retrieved April 27, 2014 from Forensic Hypnosis — — Crime Library: http://www.historyofhypnosis.org/Ramsland, K. (nd). crimelibrary.com/criminal_mind/forensics./hypnosis/1.htmlSanow, E. (November 2011). Retrieved from http://www.reid.com/pdfs/20111213.pdf..