factors affecting EWT - misleading info

Question 1

what is reconstructive memory and why isn’t it accurate?

Answer 1

formation of memories are influenced by schemas and the reconstruction is influenced by attitudes, stereotypes or bias - therefore errors are produced

Question 2

what are leading questions?

Answer 2

imply a particular answer and can influence how memory is recalled - response bias explanation

Question 3

what is post - event discussion?

Answer 3

when the recalling of events by one witness alters the recall of another witness - memory conformity

Question 4

Research : Loftus and Palmer?

Answer 4

they found that when witnesses were recalling estimates of vehicle speeds, the answers they gave depended on the verb used, so if a more extreme verb was used, their estimate was higher

Question 5

strengths

Answer 5

• can teach witnesses not to discuss with other witnesses so their personal recall is contaminated
• in interviews, the person asking questions are now aware not to ask leading questions - as witness recall is very serious and can determine whether someone gets justice if they deserve it