What does the credibility assessment factor of internal consistency refer to?

The credibility assessment factor of internal consistency primarily refers to the coherence of the applicant's statements over time. This involves examining whether the individual’s accounts remain consistent across different instances of their narrative, reflecting a stable and believable portrayal of their experiences and fears. When an applicant’s testimony exhibits internal consistency, it strengthens the overall credibility of their claims, suggesting they are recounting genuine and truthful experiences.

It is important to understand that while internal consistency focuses on the statements made by the individual themselves across sessions or interviews, it does not strictly evaluate the logical connections between different parts of the testimony or how it fits alongside external evidence from outside sources. Instead, it is about ensuring that what the applicant says at one point does not contradict what they have said at another time, thereby presenting a unified and cohesive account of their situation.