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Intelligence, previous convictions and interrogative suggestibility: a path analysis of alleged false-confession
1IARC-Ashridge, London.
The British Journal of Clinical Psychology
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Criminal defendants with prior convictions showed less suggestibility in interrogations, suggesting past experiences may influence responses. This study explored the link between legal history and interrogation suggestibility in 108 defendants.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Legal Psychology
- Criminal Justice Research
Background:
- Interrogative suggestibility is a key factor in witness and defendant testimony.
- Previous convictions may shape an individual's response patterns during police interrogations.
- Understanding these influences is crucial for fair legal proceedings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between prior convictions and interrogative suggestibility in criminal defendants.
- To test the hypothesis that previous convictions negatively correlate with suggestibility, controlling for cognitive factors.
- To explore the implications of these findings for legal and psychological practice.
Main Methods:
- Path analysis was employed to investigate the relationships between variables.
- The Gudjonsson Suggestibility Scale (GSS) was used to measure suggestibility.
- Data were collected from 108 defendants involved in criminal trials.
Main Results:
- A negative correlation was found between previous convictions and 'shift' in suggestibility, partially supporting the hypothesis.
- Intelligence and memory were controlled for in the analysis.
- The findings suggest prior legal experiences may impact suggestibility.
Conclusions:
- Previous convictions may act as a protective factor against interrogative suggestibility.
- The study highlights the complex interplay between personal history and legal interrogation outcomes.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms behind this observed relationship.