text: _________________________________________________________________________________FM 2-22.3
  source the initial stage could last from a few minutes to numerous seemingly
  accidental meetings over a period of weeks or months. The HUMINT collector
  will gradually shift the conversation to topics of collection interest but will be
  prepared to return to more unthreatening topics based on negative reactions
  on the part of the subject. Once a topic of interest has been introduced, the
  HUMINT collector keeps the conversation going by asking for clarification
  (for example, “I agree, however, what did you mean by….?”) or expressing a
  hypothetical situation.
  8-89. There are two basic elicitation approaches: mild flattery and
  provocation.
  • Mild Flattery: Most people like talking about their interests and like
  talking to those who are knowledgeable and interested in the same
  topics. People also like to speak to someone who values their opinion on
  shared interests. The HUMINT collector takes advantage of this. The
  HUMINT collector leads the conversation into areas that he wishes to
  collect but does it in such a way that it appears to the source that the
  source is leading the conversation. Above all in elicitation, the
  HUMINT collector plays the role of the rapt, attentive, and inquisitive
  listener.
  • Provocation: This is a more dangerous approach and, if used too early
  in an operation, can alienate the source. Once the HUMINT collector
  has established shared interests with the source, he can selectively
  challenge some of the source’s statements, encouraging the source to
  provide more information in support of his view. The HUMINT
  collector can also insert bits of actual information into the conversation
  to cause the source to confirm and expound on the topic. Care must be
  taken so as not to give away more information than is gained.
  TERMINATION PHASE
  8-90. When it is necessary or prudent, the HUMINT collector will terminate
  the questioning of a particular source. Whatever the reason for terminating,
  the HUMINT collector must remember there is a possibility that someone
  may want to question the source at a later date. There are many reasons why
  a HUMINT collector may want or need to terminate questioning:
  • The source remains uncooperative during the approach phase.
  • The collection objective cannot be met in one questioning session.
  • The HUMINT collector fails to maintain rapport and loses control of
  the questioning.
  • The collection objectives have been satisfied.
  • The HUMINT collector or the source becomes physically or mentally
  unable to continue.
  • Information possessed by the source is of such value that his
  immediate evacuation to the next echelon is required.
  • The HUMINT collector's presence is required elsewhere.
  8-91. There are many ways to conduct a termination, but the following points
  must be conveyed to the source: