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Pena MM, Stoiloff S, Sparacino M, Schreiber Compo N. The effects of cognitive bias, examiner expertise, and stimulus material on forensic evidence analysis. J Forensic Sci 2024; 69:1740-1757. [PMID: 38922874 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Forensic examiners have come under scrutiny due to high-profile exonerations, highlighting the consequences that contextual bias can have on investigations. Researchers have proposed solutions to reduce the effects of bias including blind testing and redacting task-irrelevant information. Practitioners have concerns over the limitations of some of this research that uses untrained students to examine complex pieces of forensic evidence (e.g., fingerprints) (1; but see 2 for studies including trained experts and/or actual casework). This study sought to (a) examine the effect of contextual bias on examiners' evaluation of forensic evidence by varying the amount of pre-comparison information available to participants, (b) compare student and expert examiners' performance and their vulnerability to contextual bias, and (c) examine the effects of contextual bias on examiners' evaluation of different types of forensic evidence. Expert fingerprint examiners and student participants were presented with varying amounts of pre-comparison case information and compared matching and non-matching fingerprint and footwear impression evidence. Results suggest no effects of blinding examiners from case information or redacting task-irrelevant information. As expected, expert fingerprint examiners were more likely to correctly identify matching fingerprints and correctly exclude non-matching fingerprints than students. However, expert fingerprint examiners were no better than student participants at comparing footwear impression evidence. These findings suggest that sample, stimulus selection, and discipline-specific training matter when investigating bias in forensic decision making. These findings suggest caution when using forensic stimuli with student samples to investigate forensic decision-making and highlight the need for more research on redaction procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Pena
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Stephanie Stoiloff
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Maria Sparacino
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
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2
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Christoloukas N, Mitsea A, Rontogianni A, Papadakis E, Angelopoulos C. Evaluation of Bitemark Analysis's Potential Application in Forensic Identification: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1180. [PMID: 38893706 PMCID: PMC11171794 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14111180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Bitemark analysis involves the examination of both patterned injuries and contextual circumstances, combining morphological and positional data. Considering the uniqueness of human dentition, bitemarks caused by teeth on skin or impressions on flexible surfaces could assist in human identification. AIMS to investigate the available literature systematically and evaluate the scientific evidence published over the past decade concerning the potential application of bitemark analysis in forensic identification. METHODS Two researchers meticulously searched electronic databases from January 2012 to December 2023, including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Adhering to the PRISMA statement guidelines, this review employed appropriate medical subject headings (MeSHs) and free-text synonyms. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied during article retrieval. RESULTS The findings yielded controversial outcomes. Approximately two-thirds of the articles concluded that bitemark analysis is useful in forensic identification, while the remaining articles did not report statistically significant outcomes and cautioned against relying solely on bitemark analysis for identification. CONCLUSIONS The authors assert that bitemark analysis can be a reliable and complementary method for forensic identification, contingent upon the establishment and adoption of a universally accepted global protocol for data collection, processing, and interpretation. Undoubtedly, recent years have witnessed a notable increase in research focused on bitemark identification, driven by the goal of achieving quantitative, objective, reproducible, and accurate results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Christoloukas
- Department of Oral Diagnosis and Radiology, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Mitsea
- Department of Oral Diagnosis and Radiology, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Aliki Rontogianni
- Division of Dental Technology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Papadakis
- Department of Oral Diagnosis and Radiology, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Angelopoulos
- Department of Oral Diagnosis and Radiology, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Almazrouei MA, Kukucka J, Morgan RM, Levy I. Unpacking workplace stress and forensic expert decision-making: From theory to practice. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2024; 8:100473. [PMID: 38737991 PMCID: PMC11087230 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2024.100473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Workplace stress can affect forensic experts' job satisfaction and performance, which holds financial and other implications for forensic service providers. Therefore, it is important to understand and manage workplace stress, but that is not simple or straightforward. This paper explores stress as a human factor that influences forensic expert decision-making. First, we identify and highlight three factors that mitigate decisions under stress conditions: nature of decision, individual differences, and context of decision. Second, we situate workplace stress in forensic science within the Challenge-Hindrance Stressor Framework. We argue that stressors in forensic science workplaces can have a positive or a negative impact, depending on the type, level, and context of stress. Developing an understanding of the stressors, their sources, and their possible impact can help forensic service providers and researchers to implement context-specific interventions to manage stress at work and optimize expert performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A. Almazrouei
- Center for Neurocognition and Behavior, Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jeff Kukucka
- Department of Psychology, Towson University, Towson, MD, USA
| | - Ruth M. Morgan
- Centre for the Forensic Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ifat Levy
- Center for Neurocognition and Behavior, Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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4
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What Does Information Science Offer for Data Science Research?: A Review of Data and Information Ethics Literature. JOURNAL OF DATA AND INFORMATION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/jdis-2022-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
This paper reviews literature pertaining to the development of data science as a discipline, current issues with data bias and ethics, and the role that the discipline of information science may play in addressing these concerns. Information science research and researchers have much to offer for data science, owing to their background as transdisciplinary scholars who apply human-centered and social-behavioral perspectives to issues within natural science disciplines. Information science researchers have already contributed to a humanistic approach to data ethics within the literature and an emphasis on data science within information schools all but ensures that this literature will continue to grow in coming decades. This review article serves as a reference for the history, current progress, and potential future directions of data ethics research within the corpus of information science literature.
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5
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Chiam SL, Louise J, Higgins D. “Identified”, “Probable”, “Possible” or “Exclude”: the influence of task-irrelevant information on forensic odontology identification opinion. Sci Justice 2022; 62:461-470. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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6
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Davidson M, Nakhaeizadeh S, Rando C. Cognitive bias and the order of examination in forensic anthropological non-metric methods: a pilot study. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2021.1998625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Davidson
- Institute of Archaeology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sherry Nakhaeizadeh
- Centre for the Forensic Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Carolyn Rando
- Institute of Archaeology, University College London, London, UK
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7
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Duran G, Michael GA. French gendarmes' ability to make inferences while listening to witnesses: Implicit and interfering information curbs their comprehension. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Duran
- Department of Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Science & Neuropsychology, Laboratoire d'Etude des Mécanismes Cognitifs (EA 3082) Université de Lyon, Université Lumière Lyon 2 Lyon France
| | - George A. Michael
- Department of Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Science & Neuropsychology, Laboratoire d'Etude des Mécanismes Cognitifs (EA 3082) Université de Lyon, Université Lumière Lyon 2 Lyon France
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8
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Kukucka J, Hiley A, Kassin SM. Forensic Confirmation Bias: Do Jurors Discount Examiners Who Were Exposed to Task-Irrelevant Information?* , †. J Forensic Sci 2020; 65:1978-1990. [PMID: 32790911 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge of task-irrelevant information influences judgments of forensic science evidence and thereby undermines their probative value (i.e., forensic confirmation bias). The current studies tested whether laypeople discount the opinion of a forensic examiner who had a priori knowledge of biasing information (i.e., a defendant's confession) that could have influenced his opinion. In three experiments, laypeople (N = 765) read and evaluated a trial summary which, for some, included testimony from a forensic examiner who was either unaware or aware of the defendant's confession, and either denied or admitted that it could have impacted his opinion. When the examiner admitted that the confession could have influenced his opinion, laypeople generally discounted his testimony, as evidenced by their verdicts and other ratings. However, when the examiner denied being vulnerable to bias, laypeople tended to believe him-and they weighted his testimony as strongly as that of the confession-unaware examiner. In short, laypeople generally failed to recognize the superiority of forensic science judgments made by context-blind examiners, and they instead trusted examiners who claimed to be impervious to bias. As such, our findings highlight the value of implementing context management procedures in forensic laboratories so as not to mislead fact-finders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Kukucka
- Department of Psychology, Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD, USA
| | - Alexa Hiley
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, NY, USA
| | - Saul M Kassin
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, NY, USA
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9
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Quigley-McBride A. Practical Solutions to Forensic Contextual Bias. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR PSYCHOLOGIE-JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1027/2151-2604/a000409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. In 2009, the National Research Council (NRC) globally criticized forensic science and, in particular, the potential for contextual bias to increase errors in forensic examination. Nevertheless, very few research-based solutions have been proposed and, of the current recommendations, none are consistently used in practice. Two experiments are presented here. Experiment 1 replicates and extends the Quigley-McBride and Wells (2018) study in which fingerprint lineups (the Filler-Control Procedure) were shown to neutralize the effect of contextual information on novice fingerprint evaluations. Experiment 2 demonstrates that restricting the use of evidence lineups to verification decisions would also be effective for reducing incorrect match decisions without straining resources. In both experiments, the filler-control procedure consistently reduced the effect of suggestive contextual information and protected innocent suspect prints from being mistakenly matched to crime samples. Interdisciplinary approaches are discussed as a way to help close the gap between research and forensic science practice.
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Abstract
Abstract. Forensic science evidence may be the most powerful weapon in the arsenal of law enforcement officials and prosecutors. As such, it is important to be aware of factors that threaten the validity of forensic source conclusions (e.g., “This bullet was fired from that gun”). This paper identifies 20 threats to the validity of forensic source conclusions including threats that spring from (a) the evidentiary samples themselves, (b) forensic examiners and the procedures they use, (c) features of the law, and (d) cognitive limitations of jurors and others who must weigh forensic science source claims.
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Abstract
Our justice system relies critically on the use of forensic science. More than a decade ago, a highly critical report raised significant concerns as to the reliability of many forensic techniques. These concerns persist today. Of particular concern to us is the use of photographic pattern analysis that attempts to identify an individual from purportedly distinct features. Such techniques have been used extensively in the courts over the past half century without, in our opinion, proper validation. We propose, therefore, that a large class of these forensic techniques should be subjected to rigorous analysis to determine their efficacy and appropriateness in the identification of individuals. A 2009 report by the National Academy of Sciences was highly critical of many forensic practices. This report concluded that significant changes and advances were required to ensure the reliability across the forensic sciences. We examine the reliability of one such forensic technique used for identification based on purported distinct patterns on the seams of denim pants. Although first proposed more than 20 years ago, no thorough analysis of reliability or reproducibility of this forensic technique has previously been reported. We performed a detailed analysis of this forensic technique to determine its reliability and efficacy.
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12
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Nakhaeizadeh S, Morgan RM, Olsson V, Arvidsson M, Thompson T. The value of eye-tracking technology in the analysis and interpretations of skeletal remains: A pilot study. Sci Justice 2020; 60:36-42. [PMID: 31924287 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This initial study is the first to use eye-trackers as a tool in order to study gaze pattern strategies and decision making processes involved in the assessment of skeletal remains. Three experienced participants were asked to wear eye-tracking glasses (Tobii Pro Glasses 2) when estimating sex and age-at-death of one set of skeletal remains from a known archeological sample. The study assessed participants' fixation points (the features of the skeleton focused on), fixation duration (the total time spent on each assessment and feature) as well as visit count and duration (the total number of visits and the duration of visits to particular areas). The preliminary results of this study identified differences in gaze "strategies" with regards to fixation points, visit duration, and visit counts between the participants. The data generated provide a starting point for assessing how such technologies could be used in order to more fully understand the decision making processes involved in forensic anthropological interpretations and their role in forensic reconstructions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry Nakhaeizadeh
- UCL Centre for the Forensic Sciences, University College London, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, United Kingdom; UCL Department of Security and Crime Science, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, United Kingdom.
| | - Ruth M Morgan
- UCL Centre for the Forensic Sciences, University College London, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, United Kingdom; UCL Department of Security and Crime Science, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Viktor Olsson
- Tobii Pro Insight, Karlsrovägen 2D, 182 53 Danderyd, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Arvidsson
- Tobii Pro Insight, Karlsrovägen 2D, 182 53 Danderyd, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tim Thompson
- Teesside University School of Science, Engineering & Design, Stephenson Street, Tees Valley, TS1 3BX Teesside, United Kingdom
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Earwaker H, Nakhaeizadeh S, Smit NM, Morgan RM. A cultural change to enable improved decision-making in forensic science: A six phased approach. Sci Justice 2020; 60:9-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2019.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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14
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What do forensic analysts consider relevant to their decision making? Sci Justice 2019; 59:516-523. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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15
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Hamnett HJ, Jack RE. The use of contextual information in forensic toxicology: An international survey of toxicologists' experiences. Sci Justice 2019; 59:380-389. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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16
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Gardner BO, Kelley S, Murrie DC, Blaisdell KN. Do evidence submission forms expose latent print examiners to task-irrelevant information? Forensic Sci Int 2019; 297:236-242. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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17
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Cooper GS, Meterko V. Cognitive bias research in forensic science: A systematic review. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 297:35-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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18
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Thompson WC, Scurich N. How Cross‐Examination on Subjectivity and Bias Affects Jurors’ Evaluations of Forensic Science Evidence. J Forensic Sci 2019; 64:1379-1388. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William C. Thompson
- Department of Criminology, Law, & Society University of California‐Irvine Irvine CA
| | - Nicholas Scurich
- Department of Criminology, Law, & Society University of California‐Irvine Irvine CA
- Department of Psychological Science University of California‐Irvine 4312 Social and Behavioral Sciences Gateway Irvine CA 92697
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Lockhart JJ, Satya-Murti S. Blinding or information control in diagnosis: could it reduce errors in clinical decision-making? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 5:179-189. [PMID: 30231010 DOI: 10.1515/dx-2018-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Clinical medicine has long recognized the potential for cognitive bias in the development of new treatments, and in response developed a tradition of blinding both clinicians and patients to address this specific concern. Although cognitive biases have been shown to exist which impact the accuracy of clinical diagnosis, blinding the diagnostician to potentially misleading information has received little attention as a possible solution. Recently, within the forensic sciences, the control of contextual information (i.e. information apart from the objective test results) has been studied as a technique to reduce errors. We consider the applicability of this technique to clinical medicine. Content This article briefly describes the empirical research examining cognitive biases arising from context which impact clinical diagnosis. We then review the recent awakening of forensic sciences to the serious effects of misleading information. Comparing the approaches, we discuss whether blinding to contextual information might (and in what circumstances) reduce clinical errors. Summary and outlook Substantial research indicates contextual information plays a significant role in diagnostic error and conclusions across several medical specialties. The forensic sciences may provide a useful model for the control of potentially misleading information in diagnosis. A conceptual analog of the forensic blinding process (the "agnostic" first reading) may be applicable to diagnostic investigations such as imaging, microscopic tissue examinations and waveform recognition. An "agnostic" approach, where the first reading occurs with minimal clinical referral information, but is followed by incorporation of the clinical history and reinterpretation, has the potential to reduce errors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Lockhart
- Consulting Psychologist, Forensic Services Division, Department of State Hospitals, State of California, Suite 410, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
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Osborne NK, Taylor MC. Contextual information management: An example of independent-checking in the review of laboratory-based bloodstain pattern analysis. Sci Justice 2018; 58:226-231. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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van den Eeden C, de Poot CJ, van Koppen PJ. From Emergency Call to Crime Scene: Information Transference in the Criminal Investigation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/19409044.2017.1385660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Claire van den Eeden
- Politieacademie, Research, Knowledge & Development, Apeldoorn, Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Criminal Law and Criminology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Christianne J. de Poot
- Politieacademie, Research, Knowledge & Development, Apeldoorn, Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Criminal Law and Criminology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Forensic Science, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Peter J. van Koppen
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Criminal Law and Criminology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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22
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de Gruijter M, Nee C, de Poot CJ. Rapid identification information and its influence on the perceived clues at a crime scene: An experimental study. Sci Justice 2017; 57:421-430. [PMID: 29173455 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2017.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Crime scenes can always be explained in multiple ways. Traces alone do not provide enough information to infer a whole series of events that has taken place; they only provide clues for these inferences. CSIs need additional information to be able to interpret observed traces. In the near future, a new source of information that could help to interpret a crime scene and testing hypotheses will become available with the advent of rapid identification techniques. A previous study with CSIs demonstrated that this information had an influence on the interpretation of the crime scene, yet it is still unknown what exact information was used for this interpretation and for the construction of their scenario. The present study builds on this study and gains more insight into (1) the exact investigative and forensic information that was used by CSIs to construct their scenario, (2) the inferences drawn from this information, and (3) the kind of evidence that was selected at the crime scene to (dis)prove this scenario. We asked 48 CSIs to investigate a potential murder crime scene on the computer and explicate what information they used to construct a scenario and to select traces for analysis. The results show that the introduction of rapid ID information at the start of an investigation contributes to the recognition of different clues at the crime scene, but also to different interpretations of identical information, depending on the kind of information available and the scenario one has in mind. Furthermore, not all relevant traces were recognized, showing that important information can be missed during the investigation. In this study, accurate crime scenarios where mainly build with forensic information, but we should be aware of the fact that crime scenes are always contaminated with unrelated traces and thus be cautious of the power of rapid ID at the crime scene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine de Gruijter
- Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Forensic Science Department, Weesperzijde 190, 1097 DZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands..
| | - Claire Nee
- International Centre for Research in Forensic Psychology, University of Portsmouth, King Henry Building, King Henry 1st St, Portsmouth PO1 2DY, UK
| | - Christianne J de Poot
- Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Forensic Science Department, Weesperzijde 190, 1097 DZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.; Police academy of the Netherlands, Research and Development, P.O. Box 348, 7301 BB Apeldoorn, The Netherlands; VU University Amsterdam, Criminology Department, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Osborne N. Commentary on: Lockhart JJ, Satya-murti S. Diagnosing crime and diagnosing disease: bias reduction strategies in the forensic and clinical sciences. J Forensic Sci https://doi.org/10.1111/1556-4029.13453. Epub 2017 Feb 23. J Forensic Sci 2017; 62:1423-1424. [PMID: 28731536 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Thinking forensics: Cognitive science for forensic practitioners. Sci Justice 2017; 57:144-154. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Revised: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Lockhart JJ, Satya-Murti S. Diagnosing Crime and Diagnosing Disease: Bias Reduction Strategies in the Forensic and Clinical Sciences. J Forensic Sci 2017; 62:1534-1541. [PMID: 28230894 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive effort is an essential part of both forensic and clinical decision-making. Errors occur in both fields because the cognitive process is complex and prone to bias. We performed a selective review of full-text English language literature on cognitive bias leading to diagnostic and forensic errors. Earlier work (1970-2000) concentrated on classifying and raising bias awareness. Recently (2000-2016), the emphasis has shifted toward strategies for "debiasing." While the forensic sciences have focused on the control of misleading contextual cues, clinical debiasing efforts have relied on checklists and hypothetical scenarios. No single generally applicable and effective bias reduction strategy has emerged so far. Generalized attempts at bias elimination have not been particularly successful. It is time to shift focus to the study of errors within specific domains, and how to best communicate uncertainty in order to improve decision making on the part of both the expert and the trier-of-fact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Lockhart
- Forensic Services Division, California Department of State Hospitals, 1305 North "H" Street, #117, Lompoc, CA
| | - Saty Satya-Murti
- Health Policy Consultant, 2534 Knightbridge Drive, Santa Maria, CA, 93455
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van den Eeden CA, de Poot CJ, van Koppen PJ. Forensic expectations: Investigating a crime scene with prior information. Sci Justice 2016; 56:475-481. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2016.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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27
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Taylor MC, Laber TL, Kish PE, Owens G, Osborne NKP. The Reliability of Pattern Classification in Bloodstain Pattern Analysis-PART 2: Bloodstain Patterns on Fabric Surfaces,. J Forensic Sci 2016; 61:1461-1466. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael C. Taylor
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR); PO Box 29-181 Christchurch 8540 New Zealand
| | - Terry L. Laber
- Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA); 1430 Maryland Ave East St Paul MN 55106
| | - Paul E. Kish
- Forensic Consultant & Associates; PO Box 814 Corning NY 14830
| | - Glynn Owens
- School of Psychology; University of Auckland; Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1142 New Zealand
| | - Nikola K. P. Osborne
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR); PO Box 29-181 Christchurch 8540 New Zealand
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28
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Taylor MC, Laber TL, Kish PE, Owens G, Osborne NKP. The Reliability of Pattern Classification in Bloodstain Pattern Analysis, Part 1: Bloodstain Patterns on Rigid Non-absorbent Surfaces. J Forensic Sci 2016; 61:922-7. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael C. Taylor
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR); PO Box 29-181 Christchurch New Zealand
| | - Terry L. Laber
- Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA); 1430 Maryland Ave East St Paul MN 55106
| | - Paul E. Kish
- Forensic Consultant & Associates; PO Box 814 Corning NY 14830
| | - Glynn Owens
- School of Psychology; University of Auckland; Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1142 New Zealand
| | - Nikola K. P. Osborne
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR); PO Box 29-181 Christchurch New Zealand
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29
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Osborne NK, Taylor MC, Healey M, Zajac R. Bloodstain pattern classification: Accuracy, effect of contextual information and the role of analyst characteristics. Sci Justice 2016; 56:123-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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30
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Implementing context information management in forensic casework: Minimizing contextual bias in firearms examination. Sci Justice 2016; 56:113-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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31
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Osborne NKP, Zajac R. An Imperfect Match? Crime-related Context Influences Fingerprint Decisions. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel Zajac
- Psychology Department; University of Otago; Dunedin New Zealand
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Dror IE. Practical Solutions to Cognitive and Human Factor Challenges in Forensic Science. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/19409044.2014.901437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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