Weapon Focus Effect and Eyewitness Identification: Effects of Training
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Psychology and Special Education
Date of Award
Fall 2014
Abstract
When there is a weapon present during a crime, the later ability of eyewitnesses to make an accurate lineup decision can be negatively affected, known as the Weapon Focus Effect (WFE). The purpose of this study was to examine whether training individuals with forensically relevant information (e.g., concerning weapons and how to deal with them) would influence eyewitness identification. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions involving hypothetical training as security personnel: (a) basic training with no weapon information, or (b) basic training with weapon information. The primary hypothesis was that, whereas a WFE would be found in those receiving basic training, the WFE pattern would change for those receiving information about weapons and the potential distraction a weapon could cause during a crime.
Advisor
Curt Carlson
Subject Categories
Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Citation
Saladino, Natalie, "Weapon Focus Effect and Eyewitness Identification: Effects of Training" (2014). Electronic Theses & Dissertations. 635.
https://digitalcommons.tamuc.edu/etd/635
