The Psychology of Lies and Wrongful Convictions

The video discusses the tendency of police and juries to assume deception, leading to biased investigations. It highlights the cognitive load experienced during police questioning, affecting accuracy. The case of Sue Neil Fraser is examined, where inconsistencies and lies led to a wrongful conviction despite lack of evidence. The video explores false memories and the impact of anxiety on recollections, emphasizing that everyone lies, but it doesn't imply guilt. It concludes with the idea that lies can create a web of deception, complicating situations further.

What assumption do police often make about people they suspect of a crime?

• They are always innocent.

• They are being deceptive.

• They are confused.

• They are telling the truth.

Why might someone appear deceptive when questioned by police?

• They are always guilty.

• They are under cognitive load and stress.

• They have a perfect memory.

• They are trying to hide something.

What was lacking in the case against Sue Neil Fraser?

• A motive.

• A defense lawyer.

• Eyewitnesses and forensic evidence.

• A confession.

How can minor lies affect a courtroom situation?

• They have no impact.

• They are usually ignored.

• They are always forgiven.

• They can lead to increased suspicion.

What is a false memory?

• A memory that is completely accurate.

• A memory that is fabricated or distorted.

• A memory that is shared by everyone.

• A memory that is forgotten.

Why might someone cling to a disproven memory?

• They are trying to avoid punishment.

• They want to confuse others.

• They truly believe it to be true.

• They enjoy lying.

What can lead to the expansion of lies?

• A desire to tell the truth.

• The need to maintain a coherent story.

• A lack of imagination.

• A strong sense of justice.