Correctional Counselor (CC1) Practice Exam

Which confidential source characteristic enhances its credibility?

1. Previous conviction history

2. High level of social status

3. Information is self-incriminating

4. Length of incarceration

The correct answer is: Information is self-incriminating

The choice of self-incriminating information as a characteristic that enhances a confidential source's credibility is relevant because it suggests a willingness to provide truthful information, even at personal risk. When a source volunteers information that could potentially implicate them in criminal activity, it indicates a level of trustworthiness and sincerity. Often, individuals who disclose such information are doing so out of a sense of obligation to reveal the truth or to assist in justice, which reinforces their credibility as a source of information. In contrast, previous conviction history, social status, and length of incarceration do not inherently indicate the reliability or truthfulness of the information provided. While those factors may provide context about the source, they do not directly correlate with the credibility of the information itself. Therefore, the act of providing self-incriminating information serves as a strong indicator of a source's integrity and reliability.