Memory 6- improving the accuracy of eyewitness testimony

What is the cognitive interview (CI)?

A method of interviewing eyewitnesses that aims to improve memory recall by using techniques that reduce bias and increase retrieval cues.

Who developed the cognitive interview?

Fisher and Geiselman (1992).

What are the four main techniques of the cognitive interview?

1) Report everything, 2) Reinstatement of context, 3) Reverse the order, 4) Change perspective.

Explain “report everything” in CI

Witnesses are encouraged to recall every detail, even if it seems trivial, as small details can trigger other memories.

Explain “reinstatement of context” in CI

Witnesses mentally recreate the environment and emotions of the event to provide retrieval cues.

Explain “reverse the order” in CI

Witnesses recall the event in different chronological orders to prevent schema-driven reconstruction.

Explain “change perspective” in CI

Witnesses recall the event from another person’s viewpoint to uncover details they may have overlooked.

What is the enhanced cognitive interview (ECI)?

A modified version of the CI that includes additional social and communication techniques to improve rapport and memory recall.

How does ECI differ from standard CI?

ECI focuses on improving witness cooperation, minimizing distractions, and using open-ended questions.

AO3: Research support for CI

Kohnken et al. (1999) meta-analysis found CI increased correct information recalled by 34% compared to standard interviews.

AO3: Real-world application strength

CI and ECI have been adopted by police forces worldwide, improving the accuracy of eyewitness evidence.

AO3: Time-consuming criticism

CI takes longer than standard interviews and requires trained interviewers, making it less practical in some cases.

AO3: Increases recall but may increase errors

Some studies suggest CI can also increase the amount of incorrect or confabulated information.

AO3: Individual differences consideration

Effectiveness of CI can vary depending on the witness’s age, anxiety levels, and memory ability.

AO3: Ecological validity strength

CI is based on real-life principles of memory retrieval, making it more applicable than laboratory-only techniques.