Which PEACE stage would you use to check the interviewee’s understanding and consent to proceed?

• A. Preparation and Planning
• B. Engage and Explain
• C. Evaluation
• D. Account

Answer: (B)

In this stage you actively engage the interviewee and set clear expectations, making sure they understand what will happen and that they consent to continue. This is where you explain the purpose of the interview, outline the process, what kinds of questions may be asked, and how long it might take. By checking that they understand and agree to proceed, you establish a clear, voluntary basis for the conversation and reduce confusion or coercion. This focus on informed participation is exactly what this stage of the PEACE model is designed to achieve. The other stages serve different purposes: planning the logistics, capturing the account, probing with challenges, or reviewing the process later, rather than obtaining understanding and consent at the outset.