Project Description
Eyewitness misidentifications have played a role in approximately 70% of the wrongful conviction cases that have been overturned on the basis of DNA evidence. This lab focuses on evaluating how the behaviors witnesses exhibit (e.g., confidence, decision-making processes), can be used to predict the accuracy of an identification attempt. Summer Research Scholars will work on two distinct projects. The first involves a series of experiments on forensic object lineup procedures (vehicles) and the second investigates outside observers’ appraisals of eyewitnesses’ behaviors when presented with video recordings of lineup procedures. Throughout this experience, students will gain experience with stimuli generation, photo and video editing, programming experiments, and experimental methodology.
Prerequisites
Preference will be given to students who have already been trained in the AMDM Lab and/or have taken CBSC 250 or Psychology and Law.
Special Comments
Project Information (subject to change)
Estimated Start Date: 6/23/2025
Estimated End Date: 8/1/2025
Estimated Project Duration: 6 weeks
Maximum Number of Students Sought: 2
Research Location: On campus
Contact Information: Nydia Ayala (email: nayala@wlu.edu)