Application of laboratory research on eyewitness testimony

Abstract

There has been heated debate over the generalizability of laboratory studies on eyewitness testimony to forensic situations. Laboratory settings and criminal contexts apparently elicit different cognitive, social, and emotional processes. However, there are unique benefits of laboratory-based experimental studies (e.g., scientific controls) as well as of field studies conducted with actual criminal witnesses (e.g., enhanced ecological validity). Thus, simple comparisons of the findings obtained in different contexts may not appropriately assess the validity of laboratory research. It is concluded that diverse methodological approaches are essential to provide practical advice and recommendations for legal professionals. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.