Opening up a can of worms: how do decision-makers decide when witnesses are telling the truth?

Article

Coyle, Ian R. and Thomson, Donald M.. 2014. "Opening up a can of worms: how do decision-makers decide when witnesses are telling the truth?" Psychiatry Psychology and Law. 21 (4), pp. 475-491. https://doi.org/10.1080/13218719.2013.837803
Article Title

Opening up a can of worms: how do decision-makers decide when witnesses are telling the truth?

ERA Journal ID6578
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsCoyle, Ian R. (Author) and Thomson, Donald M. (Author)
Journal TitlePsychiatry Psychology and Law
Journal Citation21 (4), pp. 475-491
Number of Pages17
Year2014
Place of PublicationKidlington, Oxon. United Kingdom
ISSN1321-8719
1934-1687
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/13218719.2013.837803
Abstract

Correctly determining witness credibility is integral to a fair trial. Assessments of credibility made by the triers of fact are made, amongst other things, by reference to behavioural stereotypes that are commonly thought to be associated with lying and truth-telling. These stereotypes
are worthless but pervasive. In this study, potential jurors were given information such as would be given by way of judicial direction and/or expert testimony on those behavioural indicia that are useful in detecting deception. Major changes in perceptions of what does and does not work were found. This has significant implications for the conduct of criminal trials. Recommendations are presented which, it is argued, can be of real, practical, assistance in enabling decision-makers to assess the credibility of witnesses.

Keywordscredibility; demeanour; detection; jurors; truthfulness; witnesses
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020500105. Legal ethics
480504. Legal institutions (incl. courts and justice systems)
440203. Courts and sentencing
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Byline AffiliationsDepartment of Psychology
Deakin University
Institution of OriginUniversity of Southern Queensland
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