Honors Program Theses

Award/Availability

Open Access Honors Program Thesis

First Advisor

Otto MacLin

Abstract

Cognitive maps are map-like representations of a spatial environment. Eyewitnesses are often asked to create a cognitive map of a crime scene so that it can be submitted as evidence in a criminal trial. Another key piece of evidence provided by an eyewitness is a description of the perpetrator which is used to acquire eyewitness identification. To the best of our knowledge, the correlation between cognitive maps and eyewitness identification has never been empirically investigated. The present study asserts the hypothesis that complex cognitive maps are positively correlated with correct eyewitness identifications. This hypothesis has been formulated off previous research done by McClure and Shaw (2002) on facial sketches and eyewitness identification. Results of the present study however, show that there is no correlation, neither positive or negative, between cognitive map complexity and eyewitness identification. The results of this study have created possibilities for further research on these pieces of evidence and what it means for the future of cognitive maps in a courtroom.

Year of Submission

2012

Department

Department of Psychology

University Honors Designation

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the designation University Honors

Comments

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Date Original

5-2012

Object Description

1 PDF file (46 pages)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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