Age-Based Stereotype Threat in Older Witness: A Cultural Investigation

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2024

Abstract

This study addresses the challenge of age-related disparities in eyewitness identification accuracy, particularly focusing on the Age-Based Stereotype Threat (ABST) effect. As the global population ages, older adults are more likely to witness or fall victim to crimes. Previous research has shown that older adults perform less accurately in eyewitness identification tasks, and procedural interventions have been unsuccessful in improving this. Our study aims to examine how activating ABST influences older adults in a mock eyewitness scenario, exploring potential cultural differences in its impact. Participants watched a crime video and were asked to identify the perpetrator from a lineup, with half being reminded of age-related memory decline beforehand. Cultural orientation (individualism vs. collectivism) was also measured. The study's conclusions anticipate informing law enforcement and justice outcomes in an aging and diverse world, emphasizing the importance of considering both age and cultural factors in eyewitness testimony.

Comments

Investigations in Psychology
BLH 366

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