Accuracy of EWT - Anxeity Flashcards
1
Q
Define anxeity
A
“An unpleasant emotional state which is often accompanied by physiological arousal.”
2
Q
What are the 2 views on the effect of anxeity on EWT?
+ the researchers who proposed these views.
A
- Anxeity has a positve effect on the accuracy of Eyewitness testimony (Christianson and Hubinette)
- Anxeity has a negative effect on the accuracy of Eyewitness testimony (Johnson and Scott)
3
Q
Outline the experiment and findings conducted by Christianson and Hubinette
(Hint) BANK
A
- Witnesses/victims of robbery questioned on details of event
- Most anxious witnesses (victims) were able to remeber more details than less anxious.
- Suggests Greater accuracy of EWT when anxious.
4
Q
Outline the experiment and Finding conducted by Johnson and Scott
Focus
A
- Experiment investigating Weapon focus effect.
- 2 groups (independant group design) witness either man running through room with bloody knife/greasy pen.
- Mean accuracy for identifying man in Pen condition was 49% compared to knife- 33%
5
Q
Who resolved the contradicting views on the effect of Anxeity on EWT?
What was this effect know as?
(Hint) Y…..D…
A
- Deffenbacher - He suggested that extreme highs/low of anxiety have a negative effect on Eyewitness accuracy, however moderate levels improve accuracy - The Yerkes Dodson effect
6
Q
Evaluate anxiety effects on eyewitness testimony.
1 pro 2 cons
A
- Findings of Lab studies (e.g. Christianson and Hubinette) agree with findings of real studies - can be generalised.
- Individual differences/other factors at play
- Emotional sensitivity + Violence of crime.
- Pickel - hairdressing scenario suggets suprise rather than anxeity