Perceptions of confessions by juvenile suspects: effects of interrogation technique and suspect age

摘要

Juvenile suspects are far more prone than adults to make false confessions. Two interrogation techniques known as Minimization (gentle, friendly approach used to gain suspect’s trust) and Maximization (coercive approach using harsh questioning and scare tactics) have been used frequently in cases of proven false confessions in juveniles. The present research examined perceptions of a juvenile suspect’s confession in four hundred sixty four participants recruited from psychology courses. They read a sexual assault vignette involving a 12- or 16- year-old male suspect and police interview excerpts utilizing either Minimization or Maximization interrogation techniques. Participants’ views depended on their gender, the age of the suspect, and the interrogation technique used. Contrary to hypotheses, the 12-year-old suspect was seen as more likely to confess when questioned with Minimization whereas the 16-year-old was viewed as more likely to confess when questioned with Maximization, Overall, participants did not believe juvenile suspects of either age understood their legal rights or the consequences involved in confessing.