Interpersonal Communication Perspectives in Hostage Negotiation

This article examines the power of interpersonal communication models and frameworks to help negotiators and counterterrorist teams reach successful outcomes during hostage negotiations. A fundamental premise is that superior communication with hostage takers, such as subtle linguistic techniques and other forms of discourse, is essential to obtain the liberation of hostages. An important theory is Mark Knapp's (1984) model of relational development, which postulates that relationships (e.g., between captors and captives) improve through constant interpersonal dialogue. The idea is that ongoing relationship development is indispensable at each stage of the hostage negotiation process. The ultimate objective is to establish rapport and move into the hostage takers' world.