Improving eyewitness testimony: cognitive interview

Why was the cognitive interview developed?

Eyewitness testimony lacks accuracy due to anxiety, leading questions, and post-event contamination.

What issues did Fisher (1987) identify in standard police interviews?

• Too many quick, closed questions

• Order not matching mental representation

• Witnesses interrupted and not allowed to speak freely

Who developed the cognitive interview and when?

Fisher and Geiselman (1985).

What is context reinstatement?

Mentally returning to the scene, including environment and emotions, to use cues to improve recall.

What is report everything?

Witnesses report all details, even those that seem irrelevant, as small details may trigger other memories.

What is recall from a changed perspective?

Recalling the event from another person’s viewpoint to reduce bias and disrupt schemas.

What is recall in reverse order?

Recalling events in different chronological orders to check accuracy and reduce schema influence.

What is the Enhanced Cognitive Interview?

A version developed in 1987 focusing on building trust and improving communication.

What techniques are used in the Enhanced Cognitive Interview?

• Open-ended questions

• Witness controls flow

• No interruptions

• Speak slowly

• “Don’t know” is acceptable

• Reduce anxiety and relax witness

What is the Modified Cognitive Interview?

Adapted for children and individuals with learning difficulties.