Date of Graduation
Summer 7-1-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Psychology
Thesis Chair
Dr. William B. Erickson
Abstract
The effects of misidentifying an innocent person can be catastrophic altering their life for decades, leading to imprisonment or a death sentence. The Carlos DeLuna case exemplifies how system variables (e.g., lineup types, foil presentation) and estimator variables (e.g., lighting, distance) can influence eyewitness memory. I investigated two major estimator variables, the Weapon Focus Effect (WFE) and race-ethnic stereotypes; including their effects on lineup task performance and the potential influence of cultural differences. Participants (N= 123) were randomly assigned to view one of eight (between group comparisons) one-minute mock crime still image videos, featuring either a Hispanic/Latino or a White non-Hispanic perpetrator, holding a weapon or not, and wearing stereotypical or non-stereotypical clothing. The study found no WFE or cultural differences. A significant main effect of race was found, participants in the White (non-Hispanic) conditions accurately selected the perpetrator more than participants in the Hispanic/Latino conditions.
Recommended Citation
Santillan Ibarra, Maria G., "WEAPON FOCUS EFFECT WITH A HISPANIC/LATINO PERPETRATOR" (2025). Masters Theses (Archived). 67.
https://digitalcommons.tamusa.edu/masters_theses/67