You will have learnt about a key question from criminological psychology that is relevant to today’s society - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 10 - 2017 - Paper 2

Criminological psychology often examines how psychological principles can aid in understanding criminal behavior. A key question in this field is how eyewitness testimony can be accurately gathered to ensure justice.

One widely recognized method for improving the accuracy of eyewitness testimonies is the cognitive interview technique. This approach reinstates the context of the witnessed event to facilitate better recall. It encourages witnesses to recount their experiences in a free-flowing manner and discusses environmental cues and emotional states. For example, during a cognitive interview, police might ask witnesses to remember specific sensory details, like what smells were present, to enhance memory recall.

Various studies support the effectiveness of the cognitive interview. Geiselman et al. (1985) found that individuals who underwent cognitive interviews were more likely to provide accurate and detailed accounts compared to those who received standard questioning. Furthermore, Holliday (2003) corroborated this, noting that standard interviews often fail to retrieve significant details from witnesses, negatively impacting investigations.

However, while cognitive interviews have shown superiority over traditional methods, their implementation is not without challenges. Interviewers must be trained adequately to utilize this method effectively, as poorly conducted interviews can lead to confusion and misinformation.

In conclusion, the key question from criminological psychology regarding eyewitness testimony remains highly relevant today, particularly given the ongoing discussions around justice and the reliability of eyewitness accounts. The cognitive interview technique, supported by research, stands out as an essential tool in addressing this question.