How to Cite Someone You Interviewed
Interviews are a valuable source of information for research and academic writing. They provide first-hand insights and perspectives that can enrich your work. However, it is crucial to give proper credit to the individuals you interview to acknowledge their contributions and maintain academic integrity. In this article, we will discuss how to cite someone you interviewed in your research or writing.
Understanding the Importance of Citing Interviews
Citing interviews is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it acknowledges the source of the information you have gathered, ensuring that the individuals you interviewed receive credit for their insights. Secondly, it allows readers to verify the information and locate the original source. Lastly, it demonstrates your commitment to academic honesty and ethical research practices.
Types of Interviews
There are various types of interviews, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured interviews. The citation format may vary slightly depending on the type of interview. However, the general principles remain the same.
Citing a Structured Interview
When citing a structured interview, include the following information:
1. Interviewee’s name: Start with the name of the person you interviewed.
2. Title of the interview: If the interview has a specific title, include it in quotation marks.
3. Interview date: Mention the date on which the interview took place.
4. Interviewer’s name: Include your name as the interviewer.
5. Title of the publication or research project: If the interview is part of a publication or research project, provide the title.
6. Publisher or sponsor: If applicable, include the publisher or sponsor of the interview.
Example:
Smith, John. “John Smith Interview.” 2021. [Your Name]. [Title of Publication or Research Project]. [Publisher or Sponsor].
Citing a Semi-Structured or Unstructured Interview
For semi-structured or unstructured interviews, the citation format is similar to that of a structured interview. However, you may not have a specific title for the interview. In this case, you can use a descriptive title or simply mention the interviewee’s name.
Example:
Johnson, Emily. Interview. 2021. [Your Name]. [Title of Publication or Research Project].
Citing an Interview in a Bibliography
When creating a bibliography or reference list, follow the citation style guide preferred by your academic institution or publisher. Common citation styles include APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard. Each style has specific guidelines for citing interviews, so it is essential to consult the appropriate manual or style guide.
Conclusion
Citing someone you interviewed is an essential aspect of academic integrity and research ethics. By following the proper citation format, you acknowledge the contributions of the individuals you have interviewed and provide readers with the necessary information to verify the source of your information. Always consult the relevant citation style guide to ensure you are citing interviews correctly.
