Eyewitness IDs

Question 1

What is the difference b/w system v. estimator variables?

Answer 1

System variables are the variables in law enforcement’s control, the procedures used in the administration of ID tasks. Ex. instructions, composition of the lineup, and communication/feedback. Estimator variables are the variables that we cannot control and can only estimate how they will affect someone. These factors make it hard for the witness to process and recall memories. Ex. stress, drug/alcohol intoxication, presence of a weapon, exposure time, and retention interval (time delay).

Question 2

What 1 change would Mitch Eisen make to photo ID procedures?

Answer 2

He would make the experimenter blind and have the police do double blind photo ID procedures.