Examining the Prejudicial Effects of Gang Evidence on Jurors

Autor: Mitchell L. Eisen, David Drachman Ms, Cheryl Groskopf Ms, Amanda Clemente Ms, Lindsey Wandry Ms, Dayna M. Gomes Ms
Rok vydání: 2013
Předmět:
Zdroj: Journal of Forensic Psychology Practice. 13:1-13
ISSN: 1522-9092
1522-8932
DOI: 10.1080/15228932.2012.713831
Popis: This study was designed to examine the potential biasing effects of gang association on mock juror verdicts. Three hundred and fifteen undergraduate psychology students watched one of three versions of a simulated trial that included opening and closing arguments by the defense and prosecution, together with direct and cross-examination of the investigating officer and the victim/eyewitness. The three versions differed only in regard to mention of the defendant's gang association. Gang association was manipulated by having the defendant described as either seen hanging out with gang members on the night of the incident (gang affiliate) or being a documented gang member with a gang tattoo (hardcore gang member). In the control condition, no mention of gangs was made. As predicted, when testimony on gang affiliation was introduced, guilty verdicts increased significantly. Overall, participants were more likely to find the defendant guilty in the gang affiliate and hardcore gang conditions when compared to t...
Databáze: OpenAIRE