Topic 4 - psych of a courtroom

• What was the primary focus of the Penrod and Cutler lab experiment?

  Expert witness testimony
• The participants in the Penrod and Cutler study included students and experienced jurors
• Eyewitness confidence affects jury verdicts in court
• What percentage of jurors voted guilty when the eyewitness was 100% confident?

  67%
• When the eyewitness was only 80% confident, the guilty rate dropped to 60%
• Appearance can influence jurors and introduce bias in court
• What is the purpose of scientific jury selection?

  Selecting the perfect jury
• A challenge for cause is unlimited and requires proof of bias or ignorance
• Peremptory challenges are limited and do not require a reason
• What type of accent did the suspect in the Dixon study have?

  Southern accent
• A drum accent paired with blue-collar crime led to significantly higher guilt ratings compared to other conditions.
• What social factors can influence criminal verdicts according to the Dixon study?

  Accents and biases
• Jury instructions are often too detailed and confusing for jurors to understand
• What personal factors can influence jury verdicts?

  Biases and prejudices
• The Dixon study suggests that errors in impressions and memory can affect jury decisions.