These "magic words" come from three commonly used defense mechanisms persons use to avoid blame: rationalization, projection, and minimization. Investigators call these three defense mechanisms the RPMs of interrogation and use them to help suspects maintain their dignity or save face. In offering face- saving statements, investigators use the same defense mechanisms used by the suspects to justify their crimes. After listening intently to the suspect during the interview, investigators feed back to suspects the same "magic words" of rationalization, projection, and minimization. A recent homicide case is used to illustrate four techniques of developing "magic words" and an effective style of delivering them. In this example, the investigator uses the information gained in the initial interview with the suspect to develop the RPMs and obtain a confession. The interrogator rationalizes the suspect's actions, projects the blame onto others, minimizes the crime, and provides reasons to confess. In delivering these RPMs, the interrogator uses a friendly, conversational approach rather than an accusatory, intimidating style of delivery. 4 notes