Criteria-based Statement Analysis (From Psychological Methods in Criminal Investigation and Evidence, P 217-245, 1989, David C. Raskin, ed. -- See NCJ-120545)

• NCJ Number: 120552
• Author(s): M Steller; G Koehnken
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 29 pages
• Sale Source: Springer Publishing Co
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article describes psychological criteria used in Germany for assessing the credibility of eyewitness testimony.

Abstract

The analysis has three elements: individual characteristics of the witness, possible motives for the witness to make a false accusation, and the content of the statement itself. General "reality criteria" for assessing the statement are logical structure, unstructured production (a structured, chronological presentation usually indicates fabrication), and quantity of details. Specific criteria include descriptions of interactions, reproduction of conversation, unexpected complications during the incident, and admitting lack of memory (those giving false testimony would rather answer questions completely than admit lack of memory). Findings of a recent field validity study supported the reality criteria system. 2 tables, 20 references.