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Cognitive psychology has been used to explain key questions of relevance to today's society - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
Cognitive psychology has been used to explain key questions of relevance to today's society. Discuss the key question for society you have studied using concepts, t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Cognitive psychology has been used to explain key questions of relevance to today's society - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Key question: How reliable is eyewitness testimony?
Answer
Eyewitness testimony is a crucial aspect of the judicial system and can significantly affect the outcome of a case. Studies indicate that there are issues with the reliability of such testimonies, impacting individuals' lives drastically.
For instance, the Innocence Project (2015) found that around 72% of wrongful convictions were partly due to errors in eyewitness identification. This highlights the importance of understanding the fallibility of memory in the context of legal proceedings.
Moreover, societal implications arise when innocent people are wrongfully convicted due to mistaken identifications. This not only leads to severe consequences for those individuals but also raises questions about the justice system's ability to ensure fair trials and the validity of the evidence presented in court.
Step 2
Reconstructive Memory Theory
Answer
Reconstructive memory theory can offer insights into how eyewitness testimonies may be flawed. This theory suggests that individuals reconstruct memories based on prior knowledge, experiences, and expectations, which can lead to gaps filled with inaccuracies.
For example, when witnesses try to recall events, they might inadvertently incorporate information from their schemas, thus distorting the actual details of the incident. This is particularly concerning in high-stress situations where the original memory may not be accurately encoded due to emotional overload.
Step 3
Importance of Rehearsal
Answer
Research by Peterson and Peterson (1959) sheds light on the role of rehearsal in aiding memory retention. Their findings indicated that individuals who frequently rehearse information tend to recall it more effectively.
This suggests that if witnesses are encouraged to rehearse their accounts repeatedly, it may enhance their ability to provide more accurate testimonies. However, it is crucial to note that over-rehearsal might also lead to the incorporation of erroneous information, thereby complicating the reliability of their accounts.