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Panel Bias During Sexual Assault Courts-Martial
1Dr. Umbrasas is Forensic Psychologist at Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia. kumbrasas@liberty.edu.
Summary
Military Sexual Assault Prevention training may bias courts-martial panel members. Psychological science suggests this training introduces bias, potentially impacting military justice and individual liberties.
Area of Science:
- Psychological science
- Behavioral science
- Military justice
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding bias in military courts-martial.
- The U.S. Department of Defense Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program training is under scrutiny.
- Scholarly criticism and judicial findings point to potential bias in panel members.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the psychological mechanisms by which SAPR training may bias military panel members.
- To apply principles of jury bias, stereotypes, decision-making, and behavioral conditioning to military courts-martial.
- To assess the impact of institutional training on judicial proceedings within the military context.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of existing psychological science research on bias and decision-making.
- Application of theories on jury bias, stereotypes, and behavioral conditioning.
- Examination of findings from the military's Judicial Proceedings Panel.
Main Results:
- Military training, including SAPR programs, can introduce bias-inducing mechanisms for servicemembers.
- Psychological principles indicate that prevention training may influence panel members' judgments.
- The military context presents unique factors contributing to potential bias.
Conclusions:
- Expert witnesses in behavioral science should be utilized in courts-martial.
- Explaining the influence of institutional training on judgment is crucial for fair trials.
- Ensuring the integrity of the military justice system is vital for protecting individual liberties.
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