⚪️ Memory - Post-Event Discussion

Question 1

What is post event discussion and what can it lead to

Answer 1

Occurs when witnesses discuss an event after it has happened. It can lead to memory contamination as witness may incorporate information from others into their own memoriesn

Question 2

According to the Source Monitoring theory, how does post event discussion affect EWT

Answer 2

According to the source monitoring theory, memories of the event are genuinely distorted. They can recall the event but they can’t recall where it came from (source confusion)

Question 3

What does the conformity theory argue about post event discussion

Answer 3

Argues that EW memories are not actually distorted by post event discussion. Instead, the eyewitness’s recall appears to change only because they go along with the accounts of co-witnesses

Question 4

Method of Gabbert et al (2003)

Answer 4

• participants watched videos of the same event from different angles
• each angle showed unique detail
• witness a - stealing money
• witness b - cannot see stealing money
• group 1 allowed to talk
• group 2 no discussion

Question 5

Results of gabberts study

Answer 5

• 71% of participants in co-witness condition reported information from other witnesses
• 60% reported a crime they hadn’t actually seen
• demonstrates how post event discussion can alter memory

Question 6

Strengths of research

Answer 6

• conducted in controlled lab experiment
• allows for careful control of variables
• cause and effect relationships
• can be replicated to check reliability

Question 7

Limitations of research

Answer 7

• artificial nature of the studies
• video rather than witnessing real events
• meaning lack of emotional involvement or anxiety present in real life situations

Question 8

Implications of post event discussion

Answer 8

Awareness of post event discussion effects is crucial. Now use careful questioning techniques