Confirm everything that you hear during research. Do not rely on learning about it during the research.  Even if the topic may be uncomfortable to bring up or for them to talk about it.

Talk about everything so that you know that you are working from same understanding.

And more importantly, it is important to hear from them how they feel about the situation. Some people grow from a situation, others live with a victim mentality, some are inspired to help others, others are resentful.