Dr Ivar Fahsing
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The Psychology of Investigations
UNDERSTAND
Detectives are often seen as genius loners with rare gifts—but that’s mostly myth. You don’t need to be a detective to think like one. With the right tools and methods, anyone can sharpen their inner detective, uncover facts, and see connections more clearly. Most of us were never taught how to think and judge safely under pressure, yet these skills are vital. Learning to think like an expert detective enhances creativity, sharpens judgment, and improves listening and communication skills—benefiting both your work and personal relationships.
COMMUNICATE
In any investigation, there will always be things you’ve missed or don’t fully understand. That’s why an open-minded and critical companion—like Dr. Watson to Sherlock Holmes—is invaluable. Evidence and insight often appear where you least expect them. Great detectives show empathy, humility, and curiosity, asking open-ended questions and mastering the art of silence and active listening. This includes hearing out your devil’s advocate. In an increasingly complex world, receptivity to other views isn’t optional—it’s essential. There’s no room for lone wolves.
CONCLUDE
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Brilliant detectives don’t rely on hunches—they test their ideas like scientists. Real insight comes from questioning your own conclusions and daring to be wrong. To avoid falling in love with your first theory, use structure. Our 6-Cs approach helps you think clearly under pressure: Collect solid facts, Connect the dots, Construct all possible explanations, Check what can be ruled out, Consider what to test next, and Consult a trusted mind before you act. It’s simple, powerful, and proven to turn intuition into intelligent investigation.
