Credibility assessment of criminal suspects through statement analysis

Abstract

This paper discusses the research and theoretical underpinnings of statement analysis tehniques for credibility assessment purposes with criminal suspects. Although the principles of statement analysis have long been recognized, only recently have specific techniques been formalized. It is argued that, in seeking patterns of verbal deception in the interrogation context it is necessary to integrate theories considering emotional, motivational, cognitive, and linguistic factors. Approaches emphasizing memory suggest that there exist systematic differences between accurate and inaccurate memory accounts. Approaches emphasizing deception indicate that discernible differences may exist between truthful and dishonest language behaviors. Directions for future research are described focussing on the need for eclectic strategies with both experimental and field studies.

Key Words:

• statement analysis
• interrogation
• deception
• credibility
• language