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Elizabeth Loftus, a prominent psychologist, has conducted research on the reliability of eyewitness testimony. Her research has shown that memory of an event can be influenced by what happens after an event. For example, the form of questioning that an eyewitness receives after an event, can influence what a person recalls about an event--hence the term, post-event effect.
When the post-event is misinformation, the effect has been called the misinformation effect.
This effect has been demonstrated in many studies, including the classic psychology study by Loftus and Palmer (1974) Reconstruction of Automobile Destruction. The study showed that leading questions could distort eyewitness testimony accounts and so have a confabulating effect, as the account would become distorted by cues provided in the question.
Applications
Justice: As support for this effect grew the findings influenced how law enforcement asked questions of eyewitnesses. Not surprisingly, participants in the justice system became more cautious about acceptance of eyewitness testimony.
History: Historical works based on eyewitnesses may be challenged for accuracy, although it would be difficult to establish what really happened.
Geoffrey W. Sutton, PhD is Emeritus Professor of Psychology. He retired from a clinical practice and was credentialed in clinical neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. His website is www.suttong.com
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Dr. Sutton’s posts are for educational purposes only. See a licensed mental health provider for diagnoses, treatment, and consultation.
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