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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
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.