Accuracy of EWT - Anxeity

Question 1

Define anxeity

Answer 1

“An unpleasant emotional state which is often accompanied by physiological arousal.”

Question 2

What are the 2 views on the effect of anxeity on EWT?

+ the researchers who proposed these views.

Answer 2

• 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)

Question 3

Outline the experiment and findings conducted by Christianson and Hubinette

(Hint) BANK

Answer 3

• 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.

Question 4

Outline the experiment and Finding conducted by Johnson and Scott

Focus

Answer 4

• 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%

Question 5

Who resolved the contradicting views on the effect of Anxeity on EWT?

What was this effect know as?

(Hint) Y…..D…

Answer 5

• 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

Question 6

Evaluate anxiety effects on eyewitness testimony.

1 pro 2 cons

Answer 6

• 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