Gudjonsson Suggestibility and Compliance Scales
The Gudjonsson Suggestibility Scales (GSS1 & GSS2) and the Gudjonsson Compliance Scale (GCS) are well-established, evidence-based measures for assessing interrogative suggestibility and compliance, particularly where vulnerability to influence may be relevant in clinical, forensic, or investigative work.
The training is delivered by forensic and clinical psychologists, Professor Susan Young and Professor Gisli H. Gudjonsson, developer of the GSS and GCS and an internationally recognised authority on suggestibility, compliance, and the psychological evaluation of disputed confessions and witness evidence. The course is intended for regulated/licenced practitioners who undertake assessment within clinical, forensic, safeguarding, or criminal justice settings. Trainees and assistants in relevant disciplines are also welcome, where attendance supports supervised learning and role development.
Training Description
This training provides a comprehensive and practical introduction to the background, theory and application of the Gudjonsson Suggestibility and Compliance Scales, including core concepts underpinning interrogative suggestibility and compliance, and the strengths and limitations of the Scales for practice and research.
A key focus is applied learning incorporating a clear programmed format designed to be completed in sections, with pause points to support practice and consolidation. You will be guided through administration, scoring and interpretation, including accurate derivation and reporting of percentile-based findings and how to avoid common errors. The course includes structured exercises in which you complete and score the GCS, and observe demonstrations of GSS1 and GSS2 using video-based examples, recording responses and scoring Yield, Shift, Memory, and Confabulation indices. Guidance is provided on integrating findings into a broader psychological evaluation and interpreting outcomes responsibly within professional and ethical boundaries.
The training is split across 5 sections and you should allow around 4 hours to complete the course and associated exercises.
Learning Objectives
To further participants’ understanding of the background to the development of the GSS and GCS.
To develop practical competence in the administration and scoring of the GSS1, GSS2 and GCS, including accurate derivation and reporting of percentile-based findings.
To develop informed judgement about the strengths and limitations of the Scales for research and practice, including appropriate use with different populations and contexts.
To develop confidence in interpreting results responsibly and integrating findings within a broader psychological evaluation and relevant legal/clinical issues.
