Interrogations and Confessions - Part Two

These flashcards review key concepts related to the lecture on interrogations and confessions, with a focus on false confessions, their causes, and the psychological tactics used during interrogations.

What is the main focus of research on false confessions?

Analyzing accusatory interrogation techniques like the Reid technique.

What psychological strategy do accusatory interrogations use?

They manipulate the suspect's perception of the costs and benefits of confessing.

What does the term 'choice architecture' refer to?

The manipulation of perceived options and the associated pros and cons in a situation.

What is cognitive regulation?

The ability to think straight, reason, and resist pressure, which can be drained over time.

What is 'interrogation related regulatory decline'?

The wearing down of cognitive resources during an interrogation.

What are the two main options a suspect faces during an interrogation?

Denial or confession.

What are the three steps involved in the Reid technique?

Making denial seem impossible, exacerbating the situation through continued denial, and framing confession as the best option.

What is 'maximization' in interrogation tactics?

Exaggerating the strengths of the evidence and charges against the suspect.

What is 'positive confrontation'?

Making it clear to a suspect that they are guilty right from the start of an interrogation.

How do investigators often deal with initial denials from suspects?

They interrupt and talk over them until they stop trying to deny.

What role does presenting evidence play in interrogations?

It is used to make denial seem untenable and potentially elicit confession.

What is a 'transition statement' in interrogation?

A statement that establishes the purpose of the interrogation is to understand motives rather than questioning guilt.

What is 'minimization' in interrogation tactics?

Playing down the seriousness of the offense and offering face-saving excuses.

How do investigators communicate potential consequences for not confessing?

By creating hypotheticals or sharing stories of past suspects who faced worse outcomes.

What factors increase a suspect's vulnerability to coercion?

Youth, mental illness, intellectual disability, sleep deprivation, and intoxication.

Why are youth more vulnerable to false confessions?

They often make impulsive decisions and are more sensitive to immediate rewards.

What is a common way investigators manipulate choice during an interrogation?

Through alternate questions that present forced choices of how they want to be viewed.

What is another term for 'false evidence' presented during interrogations?

Fabricated evidence or bluffing about the existence of evidence.

Why might a suspect falsely confess when faced with false evidence?

They may believe they have no chance to convince anyone of their innocence.

What does it mean for a confession to be 'internalized'?

When a suspect truly believes they are guilty, often due to coercive techniques.

What is the impact of having mental health issues during an interrogation?

It limits cognitive resources and makes them more susceptible to coercion.

What was significant about the case of Ted Bradford?

He was wrongfully convicted based on lies about evidence and false confessions.

What is a significant risk factor for false confessions related to interrogation duration?

Interrogations lasting over four hours increase the risk of false confessions.

What does cognitive reframing refer to in the context of interrogations?

Shifting a suspect's goals from proving innocence to mitigating punishment.

How does an investigator suggest that a confession would be beneficial?

By using themes that portray confessing as an opportunity for leniency.

What is a common theme used in minimizing culpability?

Shifting blame onto another person, circumstance, or justifying it as a response to provocation.

What role do explicit or implied threats play in interrogations?

They aim to urge the suspect to confess by threatening harsher consequences for denial.

What might influence a minority suspect during an interrogation?

Perceived power imbalance and heightened anxiety associated with stereotypes and authority.

Why is sleep deprivation a risk factor for false confession?

It reduces cognitive control and the ability to reason under pressure.

What is highlighted by the case of Kelsey Thomas?

The impact of emotional provocation and stress during long interrogations.

How does intellectual disability affect confession vulnerability?

Impaired reasoning and social skills make it difficult to defend oneself against accusations.

What happens when personal risk factors combine with interrogation pressures?

The likelihood of a false confession increases.

What is the ultimate consequence of false confessions for innocent suspects?

They face wrongful convictions, allowing the actual perpetrators to remain free.

What is the basic definition of 'false confession'?

Confessing to a crime one did not commit, often under coercion or pressure.