UC Irvine

The misinformation effect refers to memory distortion following exposure to inaccurate post-event information. The present study sought to take a critical look at the materials used in eyewitness memory research through the lens of this misinformation effect. One criticism of applying research on eyewitness memory to the real-world legal system is that many studies rely on pallid materials. Research on the misinformation effect usually uses a video or slideshow to expose participants to a crime. While videos provide a more realistic scenario with the moving picture, slideshows are easier to manipulate. The present study sought to explore whether these two modes of stimuli, differing in realism, produce similar effects for participants in response to post-event misinformation. Participants were randomly assigned to view the same crime via a video or slideshow, and then to be exposed to post-event information about the crime that was either misinformation or consistent information. Finally, all participants took a memory test which tested their memory for details of the crime. Results showed that participants who viewed the crime via video or slideshow did not significantly differ in susceptibility to post-event misinformation. The relationship between eyewitness confidence and accuracy was also examined. The need for more critical consideration of the stimuli used in research is discussed.