Factors affecting the accuracy of eyewitness testimony - Post event discussion

Question 1

What is post - event discussion?

Answer 1

When a witness to a crime discusses the event with others so their memories become contaminated.

Question 2

Had could retroactive interference influence post event discussion?

Answer 2

New information may interfere with your memory of the original event. In many countries pre trial publicity is prohibited.

Question 3

How could conformity influence post event discussion?

Answer 3

If EW heard testimonies from those with similar accounts or superior knowledge, they might consciously or subconsciously change their testimonies

Question 4

How can repeat interviewing influence post event discussion?

Answer 4

Repeat interviewing could damage original memory of events
Police record interviews to minimise this risk

Question 5

Is there research evidence to support post event discussion?

Answer 5

Gabbert gave a sample of 60 students and 60 older adults a video of a girl stealing money from a wallet. 71% of co witness group recalled details they had not seen as they had watched diff videos. 60% said girl was guilty. 0% of control group recalled false details in their testimony.

Question 6

Does the research into post event discussion take into account other factors?

Answer 6

Individual differences. Older people less accurate than younger. All age groups more accurate when identifying people of their own age.

Question 7

How do lab studies strengthen research into post event discussion?

Answer 7

Low ecological validity
Lacks mundane realism

Question 8

Does the research into post event discussion have practical applications?

Answer 8

Police interviews
Immediately to prevent PED